Probably one of the most anticipated sequels of 2024, Joker 2 is supposed to be one of the best movies that will come out in a long time. However, the initial reviews of Joker 2 tell a different tale altogether. Several critics have come up with negative reviews of Joker 2, and it seems as if even though Todd Phillips was ambitious with this project being a musical, the execution part of it did not work out that well. Here’s what critics have to say about Joker 2.
What Is Joker 2’s Rotten Tomatoes Score?
As of now, Joker 2 has received a 60% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which is far less than what was expected of the film. The reviews of Joker 2 are very mixed and an estimated three out of five reviews from the initial screening of the movie are on a rather negative note, resulting in a lower-than-expected Rotten Tomatoes score. In comparison, Joker (2019) debuted with an 87% Rotten Tomatoes score, indicating a significant drop in expectations.
Critics Say the Musical Element Is Not Working Out
All the critics who have talked about Joker 2 in a negative light have focused majorly on the movie’s musical approach. According to the critics, even though ambitious, the musical aspect does not fit in with the theme of Joker’s character. Critics argue that the attempt to make it a musical overshadows other essential elements that could have made it a masterpiece like its predecessor.
Hannah Strong from Little White Lies questions Todd Phillips's insistence on keeping the film as a musical. In her review, she expressed confusion over his reluctance to embrace the musical format fully. She commented, “Why is Phillips so reluctant to embrace that the film is a musical? Why not add a little more colour, some flourish to the production design and create a really messed up fantasia, instead of the grimdark karaoke session Joker: Folie à Deux turns out to be?”
Despite the hope that the musical elements might enhance the film, it turns out they fail to express anything meaningful. According to David Ehrlich from IndieWire, the musical numbers in Joker 2 are largely underwhelming. He described the musical sequences as being “too on the nose” or “too vaguely related to its characters to express anything at all.” This sentiment resonates with other critics who believe that the musical aspect detracts from the overall experience.
In another review from Screendaily, Tim Grierson stated that the chemistry between Lady Gaga and Joaquin Phoenix felt lukewarm. He noted that the musical sequences lacked emotional depth and did not contribute significantly to the characters' development. Grierson pointed out the absence of spark in both the musical and non-singing scenes, which could have elevated the characters of Arthur and Harley Quinn to new heights.
With everything mentioned by the critics above, it looks like Joker 2 is not really living up to what people expected from the movie. On top of that, people are dissatisfied not just with the incorporation of musical elements but also with the on-screen chemistry of Lady Gaga and Joaquin Phoenix, which fails to deliver the expected Joker and Harley Quinn vibe.
However, even though a majority of these initial reviews are not positive, let’s wait till the movie is released to understand the perception of the audience it targets. Will it live up to what fans have been expecting? We will find out on October 4, 2024. Till then, stay tuned!
