Audacious reach undercut by horrendous storytelling. Director Todd Phillips’ Joker: Folie à Deux, which is a sequel to 2019’s Joker, delivers on both a spectacular shot composition and a compelling performative dimension, but falters nearly everywhere else.
The film demonstrably hopes to communicate a sense of gravitas, but it just comes off as a disjoined mess that is punctuated with musical numbers. The musical numbers themselves are actually the most enjoyable parts of the movie, with their blend of Broadway standards, gospel-inspired music, and even energetic swing. But the storytelling, complete with slapdash plotting and cynical, anarchist tone, is simple unbearable. The real joke here is on the audience, for sitting through this cacophony of fragmented plots and characters. Lady Gaga shines brightly–no real surprise there–but Phoenix’ Joker just painful to watch, despite the exceptional quality of his performance. Additionally, the film’s deplorable depiction of law enforcement is inexcusable, even though Phillips attempts to justify that dynamic dramatically. Aside from the abysmal storytelling, the film is blatantly anti-cop, which perpetuates negative, dangerous propaganda associated with our brave men and women serving and protecting our communities. That’s all I have to say about this film. Do yourself a favor, and find something else to watch this weekend at the cinema.
Ryan teaches Film Studies and Screenwriting at the University of Tampa and is a member of the Critics Association of Central Florida and Indie Film Critics of America. If you like this article, check out the others and FOLLOW this blog! Interested in Ryan making a guest appearance on your podcast or contributing to your website? Send him a DM on Twitter. If you’re ever in Tampa or Orlando, feel free to catch a movie with him.
R.L. Terry ReelView 
