Joker: Folie à Deux, the highly anticipated sequel to the dark and gritty Joker (2019), is finally here, but it seems to be stirring up some unexpected reactions. Fans who flocked to theaters expecting another intense character study of Arthur Fleck, played by Joaquin Phoenix, are discovering a twist that’s leaving them a bit, well, speechless. Some viewers are even walking out halfway through. Why? Because Joker 2 is, to the surprise of many, a full-blown musical.
The Surprise That Sparked Walkouts
Yes, you read that right: Joker: Folie à Deux isn’t just a dark psychological thriller—it’s a musical. When the rumors first emerged that this sequel would take on a musical format, fans had mixed reactions. The news wasn’t exactly hidden; Variety reported back in March that the film would adopt a “jukebox” style, reminiscent of Moulin Rouge. However, despite the early hints, it appears that not everyone got the memo, and the reality is hitting hard.
Moviegoers have taken to social media to express their shock, disappointment, and, in some cases, anger. One fan tweeted, “I thought Joker 2 was fantastic, but the musical twist didn’t land for everyone. Every time there was another song, more people walked out.” The film’s unconventional approach is leaving audiences torn between admiration for its boldness and frustration over its unexpected genre shift.
A Controversial Genre Shift: From Dark Drama to Musical
When Joker debuted in 2019, it stunned audiences with its bleak and unflinching look at Arthur Fleck’s descent into madness. Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of the character earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, and the film grossed over $1 billion worldwide. Naturally, expectations were high for the sequel. When Lady Gaga joined the cast as Harley Quinn, fans anticipated an electrifying chemistry and more psychological thrills. But what they didn’t expect was for this gritty world to be drenched in song and dance numbers.
Many fans have expressed dismay over the genre shift. Reddit threads and Twitter feeds are flooded with comments like, “Never thought I’d walk out of Joker: Folie à Deux, but the musical numbers were too much for me.” It’s not that audiences dislike Phoenix or Gaga—in fact, many praise their performances—but the musical format is leaving traditional fans baffled.
Social Media Backlash: “We Came for Joker, Not a Musical”
The film’s bold choice has ignited a firestorm on social media. Some viewers are taking issue with the genre shift, saying it feels out of place for a character like Joker. Twitter has been a platform for passionate reactions, with one user noting, “I’m assuming people thought the musical announcement was a joke. We’re counting people who walked out tonight because of it.” Another chimed in, “For Joker 2, our group of 20 walked out halfway through. We hated the musical parts the most.”
The backlash reveals a stark division: while some fans appreciate the risk-taking, others feel betrayed by what they see as a departure from the tone that made the original film such a success. Many fans expected Joker 2 to continue exploring dark themes, and the musical numbers caught them off-guard.
Critics Weigh In: Mixed Reviews Reflect the Audience’s Reaction
I thought Joker 2 was terrific, but quite a percentage of the audience tonight didn’t. Every time there was another song, more people walked out. Not sure how they somehow missed the news that this was a musical. pic.twitter.com/ltXl5Tn02o
— Dr Retro (@retroramblings) October 4, 2024
Critics and fans alike seem to be split on Joker: Folie à Deux. Some reviewers commend the film for pushing boundaries and challenging genre conventions. Others, however, argue that the musical aspect detracts from the original movie’s intensity. The Hollywood Reporter noted that Joker 2 has become the first comic book movie to earn a D CinemaScore from opening day audiences—a telling sign of the film’s divisiveness.
Audience scores on Rotten Tomatoes echo this sentiment, with both critics and fans rating the film in the low 30s. The mixed reception has led many to question whether Joker: Folie à Deux is an innovative masterpiece or a misguided attempt to blend two very different genres.
The Performance of Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga: A Silver Lining
Apparently ppl were walking out of a #TheJoker screening because they didn’t know it was a musical and I just ….. did you think the singing in the trailer was just for show??????
— TYRANT𐚁 (@notmorgeen) October 4, 2024
Amid the controversy, one element has received consistent praise: the performances. Joaquin Phoenix, once again, delivers a haunting portrayal of Arthur Fleck, capturing his descent into madness with a chilling authenticity. Lady Gaga’s take on Harley Quinn brings a new depth to the character, showcasing her vocal talents alongside her acting chops. For fans of either performer, the film is still worth watching, if only for the chance to see two powerhouse talents sharing the screen.
Lady Gaga’s presence in the film as Harley Quinn adds an interesting dimension to Arthur Fleck’s story. Her character’s chaotic energy is perfect for the musical format, and Gaga’s ability to blend acting with her incredible vocal range breathes new life into the film. While some fans may find the musical numbers jarring, others appreciate the added layer that Gaga brings to the Joker universe.
The Bigger Picture: A Risky Experiment in Storytelling
So, why would director Todd Phillips take such a drastic creative risk? It seems Joker: Folie à Deux is a deliberate attempt to challenge the traditional comic book movie formula. By transforming Joker into a musical, Phillips forces audiences to confront their expectations. This genre shift could be seen as a commentary on Arthur’s fractured mental state, using music to illustrate his internal chaos.
This unexpected twist might not sit well with everyone, but it undeniably pushes the boundaries of what a comic book movie can be. In a genre where predictability often reigns supreme, Joker 2 aims to provoke, surprise, and spark conversation. It’s a gamble, and for some, it doesn’t pay off. But for others, it’s a bold statement about the possibilities of storytelling.
Conclusion: Should You Watch Joker: Folie à Deux?
In the end, Joker: Folie à Deux isn’t just a movie—it’s an experience. For fans who crave originality and appreciate directors willing to take big risks, this film might be a breath of fresh air. However, if you’re expecting a straightforward sequel in line with the dark and gritty tone of the first Joker, you might be in for a shock.
As the reviews roll in, one thing is clear: Joker: Folie à Deux is a movie that isn’t afraid to divide its audience. It challenges expectations, blends genres, and leaves viewers with a lot to think about. Whether you love it or hate it, this film demands a reaction. So, if you’re curious, grab a ticket and see it for yourself—but be prepared for a cinematic experience unlike any other.
In a world that often craves familiarity, Joker: Folie à Deux dares to be different. Maybe that’s the point.
