3.5/3.75. What I enjoyed about this one is what I enjoyed in the first — A-list acting and thoughtful cinematography. And while I didn’t love it, the writing was not a bust for me.
That said, I understand why it’s not working for some people. You don’t have the burning-fuse-on-the-powder-keg tension of the first film, so this one feels slower. To carry out the narrative and reveal Arthur’s mental state through so many musical numbers wasn’t nonsensical, but it was a … choice. It’s not too surprising that audiences are pretty polarized by the experience.
For me, though, no regrets for my movie ticket. And I’m in the minority for those who liked the ending, but I’ll leave it at that, so as not to spoil people wandering by.