The release of “Joker: Folie à Deux” has ignited a significant amount of criticism, particularly directed at Lady Gaga’s performance. This Hollywood anti-hero crime film again sees Joaquin Phoenix in the title role, for which he previously won an Oscar, with Gaga stepping in as his counterpart, continuing the semi-autobiographical saga of the Joker. Despite the praise lavished on its predecessor, “Joker: Folie à Deux” has encountered a considerable backlash, evident in its dismal ratings on Rotten Tomatoes and a flurry of negative reviews from various arts critics and publications, including the respected “TIME.”

In a recent post on social media, “TIME” featured a strikingly critical review of “Joker: Folie à Deux” by critic Stephanie Zacharek. Titled “A Movie Can Be Both Disappointing and Emotionally Weightless,” the piece sharply condemns the film for failing to replicate the brilliance of the original. Zacharek writes, “This film lacks vitality and feels so tedious that its visuals come across as slack and lifeless—much like the protagonist Arthur Fleck’s sorrowful, destitute hero wardrobe, sagging like the prison pants of a melancholic man.”

The review places the blame squarely on director Todd Phillips, asserting, “The director and his screenwriters have made a bold attempt to present a weighty film without making any effort to outshine its predecessor. However, intent does not equate to a fully realized work, and ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ struggles in nearly every aspect. While the ambition is commendable, viewers may ultimately find themselves disinterested in seeing it through to the end.”

Furthermore, the critique implies that Lady Gaga does not elevate the film. “Lady Gaga cannot save a sequel steeped in self-loathing; it’s frankly dull,” she states, adding that “Gaga’s acting falls short, and the director struggles with effectively crafting female characters.”