The hype surrounding “Joker: Folie à Deux,” the highly anticipated sequel to 2019’s critically acclaimed “Joker,” has taken a nosedive. What was once a movie expected to follow in the footsteps of its predecessor’s success has instead become one of the most critically panned films of the year. The film, which incorporates elements from both musical and courtroom genres, has been met with largely negative reviews from both critics and audiences alike.
This dismal reception has manifested itself in a disappointing box office performance. The film is projected to fall short of its predecessor’s impressive $96 million opening weekend, further highlighting the film’s struggles. The nail in the coffin, however, is the film’s disastrous CinemaScore rating. “Joker: Folie à Deux” has earned a D grade, officially surpassing the infamous “Fantastic Four” (2015) as the lowest-rated comic book movie in CinemaScore history. For context, the original “Joker” earned a respectable B+ rating upon its release in 2019.
This dramatic shift in reception is a stark contrast to the excitement surrounding the film just a few months ago. The film, which picks up where the first film left off, was initially seen as a surefire hit. However, the negative buzz surrounding the film has steadily grown, culminating in the film’s current status as one of the least-liked films of 2024.
It’s certainly surprising to see “Joker: Folie à Deux” fall so short of its predecessor in nearly every measurable way. The first “Joker” not only earned over $1 billion at the box office but also received multiple Academy Award nominations, including a win for Joaquin Phoenix’s performance as Arthur Fleck. Warner Bros. likely hoped that the sequel would at least come close to replicating the success of the original film, but that hope now seems increasingly unlikely.
“Joker: Folie à Deux” is currently playing in theaters.
