The musical psychological thriller film Joker: Folie a Deux, directed by Todd Phillips, received an 11-minute standing ovation at the 81st Venice International Film Festival. The film stars Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga in the lead roles. However, the first reviews do not seem to suggest so. (Also Read | Lady Gaga proudly flaunts her diamond engagement ring at Venice Film Festival ahead of Joker: Folie a Deux premiere)
Joker gets a standing ovation
According to news agency ANI, Joaquin, Lady Gaga and Todd were greeted by an enthusiastic theatre crowd at Sala Grande who were greeted with an incredible 10.5 minutes of standing ovation. As per the report, throughout the applause, the audience occasionally broke into cheers, chanting, “Ga-ga, ga-ga, ga-ga!” During interruptions in the chants, others shouted, “Gaga, we love you!”. The actor-singer thanked the fans and sent them kisses.
No unanimous praise for Joker 2
Though the film received considerable praise, it failed to garner good reviews. The Hollywood Reporter wrote in its review About the film: ‘Gaga is a compelling live presence.’ However, the film is called ‘sad’, with regular interjections from the main characters’ songs ‘desperately needed’.
The Guardian review criticized Phoenix’s performance, stating that ‘it’s as one-sided as before’. It added that ‘it’s certainly just as strong and his screen presence is commanding.’
Indie Wire He called it ‘boring, dull and such a criminal waste of Lady Gaga that we must demand a public hearing.’
Variety said in its review:called it ‘an overly cautious sequel’ that ‘is extremely disappointing and offensive, but it is actually a clumsy and mundane musical sequel.’
About the Joker
The first Joker was a huge success both critically and commercially. It was nominated for 11 Oscars, with Joaquin Phoenix winning for Best Actor and Hildur Gudnadottir winning for Original Score. It became the highest-grossing R-rated film of all time.
Joaquin reprises the role of the Joker in the sequel, and Lady Gaga plays Harley Quinn. The supporting cast includes Brendan Gleeson, Catherine Keener, Jacob Lofland and Harry Lofty. Zazie Beetz returns as Sophie from the first film. Joker: Folie à Deux will be released on October 4.
