Joker Sequel Faces Criticism and Box Office Struggles

Joker: Folie à Deux, the sequel to the highly successful Joker film, has faced significant criticism and disappointing box office returns. Despite expectations, the film, which introduced musical elements and starred Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga as Arthur Fleck and Lee Quinzel, respectively, received only a 33% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a CinemaScore of D, making it one of the lowest-rated comic book movies. Fans and critics alike have been divided over the creative direction, particularly the integration of musical sequences, which some found jarring. Lady Gaga, who plays a new character inspired by Harley Quinn, has expressed disappointment over the film's reception but remains grateful for her career achievements. Some speculate that director Todd Phillips might have intentionally made the film poorly to respond to controversies surrounding the first Joker film, although this theory is unconfirmed. Nevertheless, the film's unique approach has garnered a niche fan base that appreciates its divergence from traditional sequels.