“Joker: Folie à Deux” is a film that tries to capture the magic of its predecessor but ends up feeling more like a confused spectacle than a meaningful exploration of the character. While the first “Joker” film, directed by Todd Phillips, offered a deep dive into Arthur Fleck’s troubled psyche, this sequel seems to lose sight of what made the character so compelling in the first place. Instead of a well-made portrayal, we get a wild ride that often feels disconnected from the essence of the Joker.

Right off the bat, the storytelling is all over the place. It feels like the filmmakers threw a bunch of shocking scenes together without a clear narrative thread to hold them together. Instead of giving us a thoughtful look at Arthur’s transformation into the Joker, we’re bombarded with bizarre moments that seem designed to shock rather than to develop the character. It’s frustrating because the first film did such a great job of making us empathize with Fleck, but this sequel seems to forget that connection entirely. The pacing is uneven, and at times, it feels like the film is barely able to keep up with its own chaotic energy.

Visually, the film is undeniably impressive. The cinematography is striking, and Gotham has never looked darker or more atmospheric. The production design captures the gritty essence of the city, which is a plus. However, pretty visuals can only take the film so far. The soundtrack, while haunting and climatic, often drowns out the dialogue, making it hard to really engage with what’s happening on screen. It’s like the film is trying so hard to be edgy and artistic that it forgets to actually tell a coherent story.

Additionally, instead of offering thoughtful commentary on mental illness, the film leans into stereotypes and clichés. It sensationalizes the struggles of mental health rather than fostering understanding. This approach reduces the Joker to a caricature of madness, which is disappointing given the depth we saw in the first film. The film seems to revel in the chaos of Arthur’s mind without providing any real insight into his struggles, making it feel more exploitative than empathetic.

The performances, particularly by Joaquin Phoenix, are still strong, but even his talent can’t save a script that feels so disjointed. There are moments where you can see the potential for a deeper exploration of the character, but they often get lost in the noise of the film’s disorganized energy. The supporting cast, while talented, feels underutilized, and their characters often come off as one-dimensional.

In the end, “Joker: Folie à Deux” is flashy and visually impressive, but it lacks the depth and emotional resonance that made the first film so impactful. Instead of a profound character study, we get a messy spectacle that leaves the viewer empty. The potential was there, but the execution doesn’t live up to the legacy of the character. Overall, it’s a film that might entertain in the momentum but ultimately leaves you wanting more than just a display of madness.

2.3/5 stars.