Joker: Folie à Deux is a controversial movie! If you watched the first Joker (released in 2019) then you can bet it has even more controversy, and possibly even an odd goal! The film itself seems like it might want to annoy those that enjoyed Joker a bit too much. What does this have to do with fans? The original film sparked discussions about whether or not the movie might cause real-life violence as people focused on Arthur Fleck and those who embraced his mentality!
A Film That Targets Its Audience:
It seems like the Filmmakers took some serious things to heart, including some negative attention the original Movie was given!
But instead of being afraid to challenge fans of the first film, they went the extra mile. The newest adaptation really wants you to have strong opinions. The filmmakers seemed to aim at those who loved Joker and might be offended by how Folie à Deux takes on that kind of fandom! This approach is about antagonizing a section of the fanbase, but ultimately might just be a form of critique.
A New Story For Joker:
Arthur (played by Joaquin Phoenix), the Joker himself, is placed into a max-security facility and is trying to find a way to deal with this intense environment, the film looks to answer whether there is a divide, such as two personalities: Arthur versus Joker. It was a major theme in the first film that gave it a powerful sense of complexity. While the film may go on to say something more about how Arthur is mentally challenged and dealing with horrific experiences that stem from his past, Folie à Deux, gives the same thought-provoking quality to how this conflict might manifest!
- The story kicks things off with a "Looney Tunes-style cartoon!
- Fans will be really into this, it focuses on how Arthur's shadow appears to make Joker. It will truly make everyone think what it would be like if those two figures were real!
- We get a glimpse into a world that is chaotic!
But, fans will also enjoy how "Folie à Deux" adds in some cool moments that keep them intrigued. This comes in the form of a patient at the mental institution. This special character, Lee, (played by Lady Gaga), a.k.a Harley Quinn is a truly powerful, unique addition.
The Story Behind Harley Quinzel
This part of the Film might have viewers asking "Who's who?" It really puts everyone on the edge of their seats!
We get to discover what led Harley Quinzel to meet with Arthur. The scene takes a dark approach to show how Lee, much like Arthur, is grappling with complex events from their past!
This really seems to give audiences a special insight and adds a deeper meaning to what makes their bond so strong and what allows these two to relate.
You will see that in Folie à Deux the audience gets this emotional connection through music and song, but we don't really know how much of it is really taking place as part of this real world. It will even have fans questioning themselves and whether Arthur has gone through a transformational shift!
Joker Fan Culture
This really is the major part of Folie à Deux as it dives deeply into what Joker mania might do to someone! As the film explores its theme, fans get to see how Arthur becomes more infamous.
It shows up in every part of the film. In the court proceedings! What gives it a unique twist, are the fans who appear on the street to support Arthur. That's a powerful concept that brings home how toxic, a fanbase can be.
Even better is the fact that Harley Quinzel is there, adding even more intrigue to those who are captivated by these special roles in "Folie à Deux!" There's even a powerful relationship between them but that really is a major question in the film.
- Is it a connection?
- Or is it Lee's clever play to make Arthur do exactly what she wants?
As viewers try to decide for themselves, one thing for certain, the audience will find a lot to get them invested! That’s how powerful Gaga's portrayal is and just how this actress was able to show off her diverse skills in one big performance!
More On Folie à Deux
We all enjoy those twists in a film! Folie à Deux makes this apparent. You can even feel it in the very title of the film! "Folie à Deux," a French term means a “shared psychosis,” meaning an interesting concept, particularly when considering that "Joker" is on trial as they look at mental health, the film actually has more to say about that terrible culture!
As you dive further into "Folie à Deux," you realize it has more to say than it did in the first film, and really, you've got to see how far this story went, in part due to what it did in "Joker." It was even an interesting choice for this production, given how many fans may have not appreciated its decision. You may even be surprised when it becomes an interesting concept and even a big factor in why they took a certain direction!
To put everything in perspective! Zazie Beetz was in Joker, and then again, shows up in "Folie à Deux." Fans, will really see how crazy these relationships can get!
The Final Impact:
Even after you finish watching "Folie à Deux," you can't help but get a strong sense of it's impact. For fans of "Joker", you might not feel that this story truly honors your favorite. What stands out is that you can get a sense of what the directors intended to make in these moments! That's something that those who watch will surely be thinking about. It is even made clear at the ending of this story and how the message is truly going to have its intended effects, giving fans a really solid view on toxic Fan Cultures!
It turns out this latest film "Folie à Deux," has something truly awesome: an intriguing plot with those classic comic book Movie elements!
- Those that have a real taste for comic books are sure to love this story.
- What's more important, the film delivers a great sense of visual beauty. Those who enjoy great cinematographic elements will enjoy this movie even further.
- A story with great impact. Fans will surely enjoy the twists that make the series special.
You can't avoid this release, and in fact "Folie à Deux" is in movie theaters now!
