Joker: Folie à Deux (2024)

Joker: Folie à Deux

• This movie has caused a lot of divisiveness between DC and comic book fans. It’s been fun reading reviews and Twitter comments about this movie, and seeing where people stand. I know I’m in the minority by saying I really liked it, and thought it was an interesting exploration of music, love, prison life, and mental health. I have very strong feelings for the first movie, so I knew this one wasn’t going to top it. I can also understand why the majority of critics and fans don’t like it. One could say that the story is kind of weak, with a mess of long courtroom scenes and musical numbers. I fully disagree, because it's great commentary on how society treats mental health, and some people are too blind or deaf to see what the point of this film is. However, I do agree that the movie gets confused on whether it wants to be a musical or not, because despite the music scenes, it doesn’t always commit in the fullest way. But, I still loved it, and the song selection was very nice. A lot of older swing/show tunes that made me very happy. All the characters were great, especially, and obviously, Arthur and Lee. Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga perfectly encapsulate everything I love about the characters, and Phoenix continues to show why he’s my favorite version of Joker. Brendan Gleeson also did a fantastic job too, and I was surprised by how much screen time he had. The cinematography was gorgeous, with vivid colors, lots of flashy lights, and a color scheme that fits the mood very well. Overall, this movie is a very solid 9/10, and though there are some small structural issues, I love the swing that Todd Phillips took, and for me, it absolutely, completely worked. It’s one that will stick with me for the next couple days. This film is officially Berry Approved, so go check it out now!