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The Latest Chapter in the DC Villain Saga
The new installment of the DC villain saga, featuring Joaquin Phoenix, has sparked a wide range of reactions among fans. Joker: Folie à Deux, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2019 film, wraps up Arthur Fleck’s journey in a way that leaves audiences divided. With its unexpected climax, the film challenges the expectations many had for the character’s story arc.
A Controversial Conclusion with Spoilers Ahead
Warning: Spoilers Ahead! In a shocking turn of events during the climax of Joker: Folie à Deux, Arthur Fleck, played once again by Joaquin Phoenix, takes full responsibility for the chaos caused in the first film. His admission does not sit well with Harley Quinn, brought to life by Lady Gaga, and her supporters. Ultimately, he faces a tragic fate as one of his fellow inmates at Arkham Asylum fatally stabs him, leaving a sinister mark—a smile—on his face.
Director Todd Phillips has staunchly defended this bold ending, emphasizing that Arthur Fleck’s narrative has never strictly been about the origins of the Joker. He stated, “Yes, this means Arthur was never truly the Joker. He was merely a source of inspiration for the character that would evolve later.” In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Phillips clarified that the film plays with the idea that Fleck’s story isn’t a straightforward heroic or villainous origin tale.
Artistic Interpretations and Responses
The ending has not only confused many viewers, but it has also attracted some profound praise. Legendary filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola expressed admiration for the film, suggesting that it goes “beyond audience expectations,” particularly in light of its narrative structure. He remarked, “The first film was always meant to hint at a backstory. It invited viewers to consider whether Arthur’s journey was truly that of the Joker or merely the conceptual foundation for the character.” This highlights the layers of complexity and artistic ambition embedded within the sequel.
Moreover, Phillips described the death of Arthur at the hands of a fellow inmate as “beautiful,” elaborating on why Arthur ultimately embraces his criminal actions. “He realizes that the entire system is corrupt and change is unattainable. The only option left is to dismantle everything,” Phillips explained. “Throughout the film, he acknowledges that he will always be Arthur Fleck, rejecting the persona that Gotham has tried to impose on him.” This notion of identity plays a pivotal role in shaping Arthur’s final moments, amplifying the existential themes throughout the film.
Mixed Reviews and Box Office Impact
The conclusion of Joker: Folie à Deux has polarized critics and audiences alike. Currently, the film holds a mere 33% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from critics and a significantly low 31% from the audience. This contrasts sharply with the first installment, which enjoyed a much higher 68% critic score and an impressive 89% audience approval.
As a result, the negative reviews have impacted the movie’s box office performance, grossing just over $121 million globally during its opening weekend. In comparison, the original Joker surpassed $235 million on its debut. The first film not only set a record for R-rated movie revenue but also captured the audience’s imagination in ways that the sequel struggles to replicate.
As the dust settles on this divisive sequel, it is evident that Joker: Folie à Deux offers a complex narrative and raises questions about morality, identity, and the nature of villainy—topics that will continue to be debated among fans and critics alike.