Having eagerly anticipated Joker: Folie à Deux, I stepped into the theater expecting a cinematic experience that would rival the original. The excellent cast and superb talent were undeniable; their performances were as compelling as one could hope for. The sets, costumes, and makeup were wonderful, meticulously crafted to immerse us in the gritty world of Gotham.
However, despite these strengths, the film ultimately left me feeling bored. It lacked the tension and suspense that made the first installment so gripping. The story tried to explore psychological issues but did so without any real stakes, leaving the narrative feeling hollow and uninspired. The musical component, though performed with skill, didn’t mesh with the rest of the film or serve any obvious purpose. I don’t mind think-pieces, but I do ask that the filmmaker provide a path with signposts of some sort.
While I appreciate artistry and experimentation in cinema, if I’m paying $17 for a movie ticket, I expect a certain element of entertainment, and this movie offered little to none. I recommend saving yourself the price of admission. In a few weeks, you can watch it on a streaming service—the big screen brings nothing to the film that the small screen can’t deliver.
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