Saying that the recent announcements and rumors surrounding joker 2 to have garnered mixed feelings from fans of the first film would be an understatement. When it was revealed that the storytelling mechanic for Madness for two would follow the outline of a musical film, some fans were quite intrigued, others a bit mortified. The cast’s choice to have Lady Gaga play the very iconic Harley Quinn was another shocker.
Also read: “Joker 2 is not so much a Joker movie”
However, what has fans completely surprised is the latest round of speculation where insiders have teased that Gaga’s character will be the main protagonist in the Todd Phillips-led premise. The film will supposedly encompass Harley Quinn’s perceptions of the relationship she’s about to share with Arthur Fleck/Joker.
Now, whether the reports are true or not, it certainly raises a question – does Joker 2 intend to make up for the criticism the first film faced?
Criticisms of Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker
Upon the release of the first film, critics were quick to point out flaws in many aspects of Joaquin Phoenix’s starring role, ranging from minor complaints to appropriately mass disapproval. One complaint was the alleged mental illness romanticism in the premise, which several critical reviewers claimed: “perpetuates harmful stereotypes.” Second, as is the case with any film that delves into the genre of extreme brutality, several have noted that the effort is tinged with a glorifying sense of violence.
However, Joker was reprimanded for a particularly controversial aspect that many fans of the story debunked and disputed. It’s about the treatment of women in the film. Often subject to Arthur’s obsessions or cruelty, the film’s female characters – mostly in the form of Penny Fleck and Sophie Dumond – would have been an accessorized inclusion, merely present as plot devices.
Also Read: Get Out Star Catherine Keener Joins Joker 2 Alongside Lady Gaga and Brendan Gleason
The plot following Arthur’s fantasy scenarios and delusions for Sophie caused many to discover a theme of presumed objectification.
As we all know by now, the most notable iterations of Joker in the DC and DCEU comics realms have always portrayed an inherently violent, impulsive, and sadistic character. It’s no such surprise to see the villainous antagonist doing antagonistic things, and his violence is certainly not limited to women.
Things only reach an ominous impasse when the character himself is glorified, celebrated, and supported by the audience without an ounce of objectivity to account for his flaws.
How does Joker 2 plan to catch up?
Following such critical remarks, it is understandable that some fans of the film have apprehensions Joker 2.
Most of us are certainly aware of how the dysfunctional pair of Joker and Harley have almost always been shown in a negative light; the female partner having been the victim of various forms of abuse in several performances. In this sense, it would be logical that joker 2 be centered on Harley’s perspective, giving her the ability to tell the story on her terms.
By making Lady Gaga’s character the central protagonist, fans would appreciate a new perspective, a new story – one that, at the same time, wouldn’t compromise on Jaoquin Phoenix’s brilliant portrayal of the DC villain.
Also Read: Get Out Star Catherine Keener Joins Joker 2 Alongside Lady Gaga and Brendan Gleason
Gaga’s artistic prowess as a musician makes her a stunning addition to the mix. Therefore, with Madness for two set to delve into the elements of a true musical, it would be intriguing to see the story unfold with Harley Quinn reveling in several musical numbers, as she reflects on her backstory, how she has met Arthur and the “link” they will eventually share.
As of now, it’s unclear whether or not the rumor carried any weight in the first place. As far as we know, the premise may follow the stories and perspectives of Joaquin’s Joker and Gaga’s Harley. With most of the crucial details hidden away, it’s hard to tell what joker 2 will rise up in the future.
One can only hope it creates an air of excellence and acclaim in the same way it did in 2019, without having to repeat the mistakes or shortcomings of the past.
Joker: Madness for two is set for a highly anticipated release on October 4, 2024.
