Is Joker (2019) Better Than Joker: Folie Deux?

As someone who has spent countless hours watching and analyzing movies, I must say that the original Joker from 2019 left a far greater impact on me than its sequel, Joker: Folie à Deux. The first movie was like a punch to the gut, raw and real in a way that few films are. It’s a testament to Martin Scorsese’s masterful storytelling and Joaquin Phoenix’s mesmerizing performance that they managed to breathe life into such a complex character.

The conclusion of “Folie à Deux,” the sequel to “Joker” (2019), finally puts an end to a five-year wait for viewers, as they get to see where Arthur Fleck’s story unfolds next. Now that this duology has been released globally, opinions among critics and fans alike vary on which film is considered the better one, based on rewatch value and overall impressions.

Comparing “Joker” (2019) and its upcoming sequel, “Joker: Folie à Deux” (2024), presents a complex task as both films offer distinct cinematic journeys. Various aspects such as acting, narrative, music, aesthetics, and more must be taken into account when deciding which movie is superior. For this alternate universe, determining whether “Joker” (2019) surpasses “Joker: Folie à Deux” isn’t a straightforward comparison.

Heavy spoilers ahead for Joker: Folie à Deux

Personal Performances

Joaquin Phoenix’s Isolating Role as Arthur Fleck is Chilling, As is Lady Gaga’s Lee

2019’s “Joker” primarily spotlights Joaquin Phoenix as Arthur Fleck, with significant contributions from Robert De Niro as Murray Franklin and Zazie Beetz as Sophie Dumond. However, the film’s lengthy runtime largely revolves around Phoenix’s character, creating a compelling and chilling spectacle as we witness a man’s gradual slide into insanity.

In the film “Joker: Folie à Deux,” the central theme is the shared madness between two characters. Lady Gaga, portraying Lee, captivates every moment she’s on screen. Other talented actors like Brendan Gleeson as Jackie Sullivan and Steve Coogan as Paddy Meyers deliver compelling performances in their scenes. However, Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of the Joker in 2019’s “Joker” offers a unique blend of isolated thrill and apprehension that isn’t quite matched here.

Musical Connections and Original Score

Hildur Guðnadóttir’s Score Pairs Wonderfully Along Phoenix and Gaga’s Musical

2019’s Joker earned 11 Academy Award nominations, but it was Hildur Guðnadóttir’s outstanding original score that truly deserved the win. The cello, used masterfully by her, created a sense of isolation and haunting melody that transcended captivation, offering an otherworldly beauty in its portrayal of distress and mental illness.

In this new rendition of “Joker: Folie à Deux,” Hlidur Guonadottir contributes to the soundtrack, yet her previous award-winning compositions from “Joker” (2019) take a step back to make way for Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga’s powerful singing. Witnessing their musical prowess together beautifully complements the portrayal of their shared love and madness. However, there was an undeniable charm in Hildur’s Academy Award-winning score from the original “Joker.

Striking Visuals

Cinematography is Important to Captivating Viewers

Among the crucial elements that make a movie stand out, it’s not just about the music, the plot, and the actors, but also the visual presentation. The cinematography in the 2019 film Joker continues to leave an indelible mark even years after its premiere. From the heavy sorrow etched on Arthur’s face to the glimmer of optimism during his initial dance in the bathroom following his first murder, and the triumphant emergence of the Joker down those winding stairs, the 2019 film Joker boasts some stunning visuals that are worthy of the best cinematography.

In Joker: Folie à Deux, the cinematography reaches unprecedented heights. It masterfully portrays Arthur’s solitude and melancholy within Arkham Asylum in a confined and isolating manner, while the extravagant musical sequences beautifully express his affection for Lee. Both films excel in their visuals, but Joker (2019) stands out with its meticulous set design of a cold, unfeeling Gotham City blanketed in trash and decay.

Engaging Themes and Subject Matter

Triggering Themes Around Mental Illness and Abuse Are Key to Both Movies

The film “Joker” (2019) carries a significant depth of meaning with its exploration of themes like loneliness, mistreatment, and the potential for the most damaged individuals to turn dangerous when their pleas for help are disregarded or dismissed until violence becomes their only recourse. The character Arthur Fleck’s descent into insanity is both chilling and poignant, serving as a powerful reminder about the significance of mental health awareness. The film’s intense subject matter held audiences spellbound in 2019, and its impact remains compelling even now.

As a devoted admirer, I’d express my thoughts on “Joker: Folie à Deux” like this: This sequel dives headfirst into its themes, streamlining the complex tapestry of ideas from the original film. While Arthur remains a fractured character, he finds resilience through affection and melodies, only to have them cruelly snatched away by pervasive corruption. The legal system, courts, and Arkham’s guards all contribute to Arthur’s relentless battering, leading to a darker, more dismal viewing experience.

Inspiration and Originality

Joker (2019)’s Direct Scorsese Inspirations Aid Its Story

It’s quite apparent that the elements which contributed to the success of the 2019 film “Joker” can be traced back to its inspirations. Although “Joker” tells a unique tale, it’s hard to imagine its narrative and themes without Martin Scorsese’s influence from his films “Taxi Driver” (1976) and “The King of Comedy” (1982). These movies significantly influenced Arthur Fleck’s character and story, serving as a precursor to the Joker we know, yet not the classic version.

In a refreshing twist for sequels, Joker: Folie à Deux showcases an affinity for courtroom dramas and musical elements, which successfully adds a distinctive and captivating touch. Nevertheless, the initial film’s connection to Martin Scorsese’s movies lends a more immersive and enjoyable experience, despite the fact that Folie à Deux‘s originality should be recognized more extensively.

Audience Satisfaction

Joker: Folie a Deux Might Disastisfy Audiences Who Enjoy Arthur Fleck’s Story

In summary, the climax of the 2019 film Joker provides a fulfilling experience for viewers due to its balance between providing answers and leaving intriguing mysteries. Specifically, it raises the question: Was Arthur the genuine Joker, or was his story just one among several possible origin tales? No matter what the truth may be, the scene where Arthur accepts his madness and dances through Arkham with bloodstained footprints while That’s Life by Frank Sinatra plays is a captivating, ominous, and thrilling finale.

In the finale of “Joker: Folie à Deux,” Arthur Fleck experiences a more dismal defeat. The film spares no moments to emphasize that Arthur is a character who will never triumph, and ending with Lady Gaga’s melancholic rendition of “That’s Life” as Arthur Fleck bleeds in the tranquil corridors of Arkham Asylum serves to contrast the initial movie, stirring feelings of sadness that may leave viewers feeling disheartened and sorrowful.

Winner: Joker (2019)

Joker (2019) Offers a More Personal Tragedy

Is Joker (2019) Better Than Joker: Folie Deux?

Regarding the choice between watching “Joker” (2019) and “Joker: Folie à Deux,” it largely depends on personal preferences. However, there are aspects that make “Joker” (2019) a more unified and appealing experience to revisit. This film is somewhat isolating, lacking an overt sense of joy, but its compelling performances, themes, and music make it exceptionally captivating.

2019’s “Joker” film masterfully explores its themes and characters in such a way that people who are not fans of DC Comics can still appreciate it as a deep analysis of the protagonist, Arthur Fleck. Whether he is portrayed as the true Joker or simply a man victimized by a flawed societal structure, there’s plenty to discuss regarding his complex personality and the dark, realistic setting of Gotham City.

2024-10-07 22:04