Spoiler Warning: The following review contains spoilers for Joker 2. Proceed with caution if you haven’t seen the movie yet.
Joker 2 takes the character of Arthur Fleck on a unique and unexpected journey, blending genres in a way that feels both surprising and bold. It stands out as an incredible combination of musical, romance, and psychological thriller. One of the most genius aspects of the film is the addition of musical numbers, which create an upbeat and almost happy tone. This contrast effectively masks the dark and harsh realities that unfold throughout the movie, making the experience even more unsettling and thought-provoking.
The romantic tension and psychotic breakdowns between Arthur and Harley Quinn are explored with depth, and the musical elements heighten the sense of madness in the film. However, the ending leaves me with mixed feelings. While it’s a striking conclusion, I would have preferred to see Harley be the one to kill Arthur rather than another inmate. It would have been a much more powerful statement about her character and the twisted nature of Gotham.
In my view, an ending where Thomas Wayne pays Harley to act as a love interest, only for her to break Arthur out and kill him, would have been a more fitting and brutal reflection of Gotham’s harsh reality. It would have added a layer of betrayal and cynicism that aligns with the dark themes of the Joker universe, leaving a more profound impact.
Overall, Joker 2 is an ambitious and striking film, with its musical element cleverly masking the chaos. Despite my mixed feelings on the ending, it’s a movie that continues to challenge expectations and offers a fresh take on the iconic character.