While "Joker: Folie à Deux" has received its share of praise, particularly for Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga's performances, a vocal segment of viewers have expressed their disappointment with the film, citing several key reasons:
1. The Musical Format: A significant source of contention stems from the film's unexpected adoption of a musical format. Many felt this jarring shift betrayed the gritty, grounded tone of its predecessor and clashed with the inherently dark and disturbing nature of the Joker character. Some found the musical numbers themselves to be underwhelming, failing to meaningfully enhance the narrative or emotional depth.
2. Narrative Inconsistencies and Lack of Focus: Critics pointed to a perceived lack of narrative cohesion and a meandering plot. The film's exploration of mental illness and reality versus delusion, while ambitious, was considered by some to be muddled and ultimately unsatisfying. The introduction of Harley Quinn, while anticipated, was felt by some to detract from Arthur Fleck's central narrative and dilute the film's focus.
3. Underutilization of Lady Gaga: Despite widespread acclaim for Lady Gaga's performance, some viewers felt her talents were not fully utilized. They argued that Harley Quinn, a complex and compelling character in her own right, was somewhat sidelined in favor of Arthur Fleck's narrative arc, leaving her feeling underdeveloped.
4. Controversial Ending: The film's climax, which reveals that Arthur Fleck was not the "real" Joker and ultimately becomes a victim himself, sparked considerable backlash. This revelation left many feeling that the film, and its predecessor, were rendered pointless. The ambiguity surrounding the true Joker's identity and the implication that Arthur's actions were merely a delusion frustrated those seeking a more definitive conclusion.
5. Departure from the Source Material: While the first "Joker" film took creative liberties, it still maintained a recognizable connection to the character's comic book origins. "Folie à Deux" deviates further, with some feeling it strayed too far from the established Joker mythos. This departure alienated some fans who were hoping for a more faithful adaptation.
In summary, "Joker: Folie à Deux" has proven to be a divisive film. While praised for its performances and ambition, its musical format, narrative choices, and controversial ending have left many viewers disappointed and questioning its place within the Joker's legacy.