Joker: Folie À Deux – Did I like It? I’m Not Sure.

There are very few times when I view a film and can’t decide how I feel about it.

Joaquin Phoenix returns as Arthur Flex/Joker and gives us another award-winning performance.  He lost 52 pounds to play this role and right off the bat, his appearance puts you on edge. Combine that with the crazy laugh of the Joker

Alex is institutionalized at Arkham, waiting to go on trial.  His attorney and therapist want him to present an insanity plea to not get the death penalty.  The guards seem to have a detached attachment to Alex. Even though he killed so many people he is pretty docile at the institution. I’m sure the meds help. In his mind, he is the song and dance man which is his happy place.

Enter Lee Quinzel played by Lady Gaga who is housed in a less restrictive portion of the institution.  She lays eyes on Alex and sparks fly…literally.  She offers Alex love, affection, and hope to let the Joker out. But, is she really who she seems?

There is an overabundance of song and dance, sort of a stage play vibe, however, with the way the music is put in the scenes you have to pay attention to what the songs are saying. Also realizing if the songs are live or Memorex. Are they only in their heads?

I think writer/director/producer Todd Phillips wanted the moviegoer to leave with questions and wanting to discuss it afterward.

Is Alex really insane?  Is he more Alex or the Joker? Does Lee love Alex the man or his alter ego the Joker?

Bottom line, after thinking about it for a while I decided I liked it enough to recommend it to be seen on the big screen in the theaters. Just watching Joaquin Phoenix’s performance is worth the price of admission.  Watching at home on television just won’t do.  Date night is a no but a matinee with friends would be cool.

I give Joker: Folie À Deux 3 out of 5 Winks of the EYE!