The first reviews of Joker 2 have already been published and opinion is divided between those who consider it “clever” and “engaging” and those who classify it as “boring” and “tedious”.
The film is the sequel to Joker (2019) and was once again directed by The Hangover ’s Todd Phillips . Joaquin Phoenix reprises his starring role as Arthur Fleck (the Joker), while Lady Gaga joins the cast as Harleen “Lee” Quinzel, the antihero’s love interest.
Before the premiere, Phillips and Gaga revealed that the film has a significant musical component.
Among critics who praised the film was The Independent ’s Geoffrey Macnab , who gave it four stars and wrote: “The film’s dark undercurrent is emphasised by its brutal ending, which, rather than following comic book conventions, opts for a grittier, more complex approach. Phoenix’s performance is powerful and moving. The film’s genius is that we can’t help but care for Arthur despite his emotional dependency and madness.”
He added: “Even in the film’s most apocalyptic and violent moments, we are always aware that beneath the Joker’s colorful makeup lies the fragile and vulnerable Arthur. Believe it or not, this witty and deeply disturbing film does get a little emotional towards the end.”
John Nugent of Empire also gave it four stars, calling it “a sweet and seductive musical romance typical of two psychopathic killers.”
He added: “His quirky style won’t please comic book fans, but he has a peculiar, angsty optimism.”
On the other hand, Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian considered the feature to deserve three stars, and argued that, although it has a “strange composure”, that is what keeps the audience “interested”.
Jo-Ann Titmarsh of the Evening Standard was less enthusiastic, giving the upcoming release two stars, saying: “It could have been a spectacular film if it had had more of the comic book action scenes and a few fewer musical scenes.”
Similarly, the BBC ‘s Nicholas Barber called it “monotonous, disappointing and forced.”
Kevin Maher of The Times also gave it just two stars, calling it “messy and unfunny.”
Furthermore, David Rooney of the Hollywood Reporter wrote: “For a two-and-a-quarter-hour movie, Joker 2’s plot is loose and even boring.”
He added: “Some people will complain that Gaga doesn’t get enough of a lead role. However, even though the singer could have done well in a lot of other scenes, her character is well developed.”
Vulture critic Alison Willmore agreed with Rooney, saying, “ Joker 2 is a movie about Arthur, and Arthur isn’t very interesting.”
Joker 2 is screening at the Venice Film Festival and will be available in theaters from October 4 .
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