Joker 2 REVIEW - Joker: Folie à Deux DESTROYS Joker

Summary

The video script offers a critical review of 'Joker 2,' exploring how the sequel undoes much of the impact of the original film. The reviewer praises the performances, especially Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, but criticizes the musical elements and the character regression of Arthur Fleck. The film is described as frustrating, with musical scenes disrupting its momentum, and a plot that feels apologetic for its predecessor. The review suggests that 'Joker 2' risks alienating its audience and may tarnish the legacy of the first film, questioning the need for a sequel at all.

Takeaways

• 🎬 The movie *Joker* was initially controversial due to fears it might incite violence, but it ended up being a major success, grossing over $1 billion despite challenges like its R rating and lack of release in China.
• 💰 *Joker* received mixed critical reviews but was well-received by audiences, even winning Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Joaquin Phoenix.
• 🃏 The sequel, *Joker: Folie à Deux*, focuses again on Arthur Fleck, but its musical format is a major shift, which detracts from the movie's impact.
• 🎶 The musical elements of *Joker 2* are the weakest part, turning the movie into a 'musical court drama' that often feels out of place.
• 🤔 Arthur Fleck’s character in *Joker 2* feels like a regression, undoing the development from the first film and reverting him back to a 'pathetic' character.
• 🎭 Lady Gaga does a solid job portraying Harley Quinn, but her character feels underutilized, and the narrative doesn't explore her relationship with Arthur deeply enough.
• 😕 The unreliable narrator aspect from the first movie is present but less effective, leaving some scenes confusing and not as interesting as in the original.
• 💡 The movie feels frustrating because every time it seems like it’s building momentum, it’s interrupted by musical scenes that halt the progress.
• 📉 *Joker 2* seems like a financial risk with high expectations, but early ticket sales are underwhelming, compared to other flops like *Indiana Jones* and *The Flash*.
• 🙅‍♂️ The reviewer feels *Joker 2* wasn’t necessary and suggests it may have been made for financial reasons rather than artistic ones, potentially ruining the legacy of the original *Joker*.

Q & A

What was the initial concern raised by corporate media regarding the release of the first *Joker* movie?

Corporate media raised concerns that the first *Joker* movie could incite incel violence, suggesting it might lead to real-world security issues.

How did the controversy surrounding the *Joker* movie affect its success?

The controversy surrounding the *Joker* movie helped propel it to success, as it gained significant attention and eventually earned over a billion dollars at the box office.

What were some challenges the first *Joker* movie faced before its release?

Some challenges included being rated R, not being released in China, and receiving a 49% rating from corporate critics on Rotten Tomatoes.

How was *Joker* received by audiences and critics despite initial controversies?

*Joker* was well-received by audiences, winning Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Joaquin Phoenix, even though corporate critics were initially skeptical.

What is the general tone of the review for *Joker: Folie à Deux* (Joker 2) in this transcript?

The review for *Joker: Folie à Deux* is largely negative, describing it as frustrating, disappointing, and unnecessary, with a particular critique of its musical elements.

What is the reviewer's opinion on the musical elements in *Joker 2*?

The reviewer believes the musical elements were the worst part of *Joker 2*, frustrating the film's pace and diminishing the overall quality.

How is Lady Gaga’s portrayal of Harley Quinn received in the review?

Lady Gaga's portrayal of Harley Quinn is seen positively; she is described as doing a good job portraying Harley as an obsessed fan of the Joker. However, the reviewer feels she was underutilized.

What criticism does the reviewer have about the character development of Arthur Fleck in *Joker 2*?

The reviewer criticizes that Arthur Fleck's character is essentially reset, undoing his development from the first film, which they refer to as 'character assassination through character reversion.'

What does the reviewer speculate about Todd Phillips’ intentions with *Joker 2*?

The reviewer speculates that Todd Phillips may have made *Joker 2* reluctantly, possibly trolling Warner Brothers by making a musical with a large budget after being offered more money than the first film.

What is the reviewer's ultimate verdict on *Joker 2*?

The reviewer concludes that *Joker 2* is a bad movie, suggesting it may ruin the original for viewers due to its nihilistic and pointless nature, and argues that it was an unnecessary sequel.