Joker: Folie à Deux (2024) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
In 2019, Todd Phillips’s Joker took the world by storm, redefining the superhero genre with a darker, grittier take on the origins of one of comic book’s most iconic villains. Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of Arthur Fleck, a mentally ill man struggling with his sense of identity and societal rejection, earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. With Joker: Folie à Deux (2024), Phillips continues the unsettling saga, but this time, with a bold twist: it’s a musical. This ambitious sequel dives even deeper into Fleck’s madness, intertwining his story with Lady Gaga’s portrayal of Harley Quinn, bringing new layers to an already complex narrative.
Plot Overview
Joker: Folie à Deux picks up where the first film left off. Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) is institutionalized at Arkham Asylum after his descent into madness and murder. Now awaiting trial for his crimes, Arthur is haunted by his Joker persona, torn between his reality and the fantasies he constructs in his mind. It’s during his time in Arkham that he meets Lee Quinzel (Lady Gaga), a music therapist who becomes increasingly fascinated with Fleck, ultimately transforming into Harley Quinn.
The musical element adds an unexpected layer to this story. The film juxtaposes grand musical numbers with the grim, decaying setting of Arkham. Songs from the Great American Songbook, such as “Get Happy” and “Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered,” play a significant role in exploring the characters’ inner turmoil and fractured psyches. The numbers reflect Arthur and Harley’s shared madness, giving the film a surreal, almost dreamlike quality.
Performances
Phoenix once again proves why he’s one of the most compelling actors of our time. His portrayal of Arthur Fleck in Joker was a masterclass in physicality and psychological complexity, and in Folie à Deux, he takes it further. His Arthur is more passive, retreating further into his Joker persona as his mental state deteriorates. However, it’s during the musical numbers that Phoenix truly shines, bringing a disturbing yet captivating energy to the screen.
Lady Gaga’s portrayal of Harley Quinn, however, is the film’s true revelation. She brings a mix of vulnerability, madness, and charisma to the role, giving Harley Quinn a more grounded, tragic backstory compared to her previous, more cartoonish iterations. Her singing talents are on full display, and her chemistry with Phoenix, though understated, adds a haunting depth to their on-screen relationship.
Direction and Cinematography
Todd Phillips takes major creative risks with Joker: Folie à Deux, blending the bleak realism of the first film with the flamboyance of a musical. While the choice to make the film a musical may seem jarring, Phillips uses the genre as a means to explore Arthur’s delusions and provide insight into his fractured mind. The cinematography, once again helmed by Lawrence Sher, contrasts the grim reality of Arkham Asylum with the vibrant, surreal musical numbers, creating a visual dichotomy that mirrors Arthur’s split personality.
The musical sequences are lavish, reminiscent of old Hollywood musicals, but with a sinister twist. There’s a discomfort in watching Arthur and Harley perform elaborate routines amid the grim setting of a mental institution, which reflects the chaotic nature of the film’s tone.
Themes and Symbolism
At its core, Joker: Folie à Deux delves into the concepts of identity, madness, and societal rejection, much like its predecessor. However, this time, Phillips expands these themes by exploring the shared psychosis between Arthur and Harley, as hinted at by the film’s title, Folie à Deux — a French term for a shared delusion between two people. Their relationship serves as a metaphor for toxic, codependent love, with Harley embodying the darker aspects of Arthur’s psyche.
The film also critiques society’s tendency to glorify villains and killers, a theme that was present in the first Joker but is taken to new heights here. The musical format itself seems to mock the notion of turning violent characters into romanticized figures, with Arthur and Harley’s relationship unfolding through song and dance while violence looms in the background.
Where to Watch Joker: Folie à Deux Online
As of now, Joker: Folie à Deux is still showing in theaters across the globe, with a theatrical release being the exclusive way to watch the movie at present. However, considering the massive success of the first Joker, it’s likely that Warner Bros. will soon make the film available on various streaming platforms after its theatrical run. Based on past trends, here are the likely platforms where Joker: Folie à Deux could become available for streaming or rental:
- HBO Max (soon to be rebranded as Max in 2024) – As a Warner Bros. production, Joker: Folie à Deux is expected to land on HBO Max for streaming in the United States after its theatrical window ends. Warner Bros. films typically follow a 45 to 90-day theatrical release window before they’re available on the streaming service.
- Amazon Prime Video – After its initial release on HBO Max, the film could also be available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. This would allow viewers to either rent the movie for a limited time or buy it for permanent access.
- Apple TV – Another option for renting or purchasing Joker: Folie à Deux would be Apple TV, where new releases often become available after their theatrical runs.
- Google Play & YouTube Movies – These platforms are often the go-to for viewers who prefer to rent or buy films rather than stream them on subscription services. Joker: Folie à Deux will likely be available for digital purchase and rental here as well.
Final Assessment
1. Performance: Joaquin Phoenix once again delivers a deep and intense performance as Joker. Although his character is more passive in this film compared to the original, Phoenix still brings a raw emotional complexity to Arthur Fleck. On the other hand, Lady Gaga adds a new emotional layer to her portrayal of Lee Quinzel, with her vocal abilities seamlessly blending into her character arc. Their on-screen chemistry is powerful, especially during musical sequences.
2. Direction and Cinematic Style: Todd Phillips takes a bold leap in this sequel by blending psychological drama with musical sequences, creating an almost surreal cinematic experience. While some may find the shift into musical elements jarring, it enhances the chaotic and fractured mental state of the main characters, particularly Harley Quinn. The musical segments, rather than feeling out of place, offer deeper insight into the minds of the protagonists.
3. Tone and Themes: Folie à Deux delves deeper into the themes of mental illness, societal alienation, and the thin line between love and madness. The film’s title, which refers to a shared psychosis, is explored through the relationship between Joker and Harley. Their dynamic is complex and tragic, offering a fresh perspective on toxic relationships while maintaining the dark, gritty tone of the original film.
Recommendation:
Joker: Folie à Deux is a bold, visually striking sequel that isn’t afraid to take risks. It may not be for everyone, especially for those expecting a more traditional continuation of the first film. However, for fans of psychological thrillers with an experimental edge, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
If you appreciate thought-provoking narratives with deep emotional performances and don’t mind the genre-bending approach, this film is highly recommended.
If you’re ready for a cinematic experience that defies expectations and dives deep into the psyche of its characters, Joker: Folie à Deux is a must-watch. Don’t miss out on this groundbreaking sequel that redefines what a comic book film can be!
