Todd Phillips’ much-anticipated sequel, Joker: Folie à Deux, a musical psychological thriller starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, made its grand debut at the 81st Venice International Film Festival.
The film was greeted with an impressive 11-minute standing ovation from an ecstatic crowd at the Sala Grande. Fans erupted in chants of “Ga-ga, Ga-ga, Ga-ga!” showing their love for Lady Gaga, who graciously thanked them and blew kisses in return.
Standing Ovation Doesn’t Translate to Unanimous Praise:
Despite the thunderous applause at the premiere, early reviews for Joker: Folie à Deux have been far from universally positive. While Lady Gaga’s performance received praise, the film itself struggled to impress critics.
- The Hollywood Reporter noted that while Gaga’s performance was a “compelling live-wire presence,” the film was described as “dour” and desperately needed more musical interventions from its lead characters.
- The Guardian critiqued Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of the Joker, calling his performance “single-note as before” while acknowledging his potent screen presence.
- IndieWire didn’t hold back, labeling the film “boring, flat, and such a criminal waste of Lady Gaga that we should demand a public hearing.”
- Variety expressed disappointment, calling it an “overly cautious sequel” that aimed to be darkly irreverent but ultimately felt “clunky and earthbound.”
Joker’s Legacy: Following in the Footsteps of a Blockbuster:
The original Joker was a massive success, garnering critical acclaim and commercial triumph. It was nominated for 11 Oscars, with Joaquin Phoenix taking home the Best Actor award and Hildur Guðnadóttir winning for Original Score. The film also became the highest-grossing R-rated movie in history.
Cast and Release Date for Joker: Folie à Deux:
In the sequel, Joaquin Phoenix reprises his role as the infamous Joker, while Lady Gaga steps in as Harley Quinn.
The cast also includes Brendan Gleeson, Catherine Keener, Jacob Lofland, Harry Lawtey, and Zazie Beetz, who returns as Sophie. Joker: Folie à Deux will be released on October 4.
