Controversy Surrounding the Sequel

The controversy surrounding "Joker: Folie à Deux" continues to intensify one month after its theatrical debut, with new criticism emerging from within the film itself. Comedian Tim Dillon, who took on a minor role as a guard in Arkham Asylum in Todd Phillips’ musical comic book sequel, has gone public with his harsh assessment, labeling the film as "the worst film ever made."

Tim Dillon's Harsh Assessment

In a candid conversation on "The Joe Rogan Experience" podcast, Dillon explained his perspective on the film's creative direction. He noted that following the huge success of the original "Joker" in 2019—a film that grossed over $1 billion worldwide and won multiple Oscars—the sequel seemed to skew away from its predecessor’s dark and gritty tone. Dillon remarked, "I think what happened, after the first Joker, there was a lot of talk like, 'Oh, this was loved by incels. This sent the wrong kind of message. Male rage! Nihilism!' And then I think they decided to take the opposite approach."

Concerns from the Cast

The actor’s criticisms did not stop at the film's apparent lack of cohesive storytelling. He shared his backstage experience, recalling conversations with fellow cast members who expressed skepticism about the final product. "We would sit there in our security outfits, and I'd turn to one of them to say, 'What the f— is this?' They’d respond, 'This is going to bomb, man.' It felt like a bizarre exercise without a point," Dillon lamented. He added that the film lacked a discernible plot, saying, "It's not even hate-watchable. That's how terrible it is."

Commercial Struggles

The stark contrast between the original "Joker" and its sequel could be contributing to the latter's commercial struggles. While the first movie captivated audiences and critics alike, "Folie à Deux" has only amassed $204 million globally, a fraction of its successful predecessor's earnings.

Diverse Opinions Within the Industry

Despite the backlash from several prominent figures, including filmmaker Paul Schrader and TV host Bill Maher, not everyone shares Dillon's opinion. Notable voices in the industry, such as video game visionary Hideo Kojima, has suggested that the film may find a niche audience over time, potentially becoming a cult classic in the decades to come. The legendary Quentin Tarantino also defended the movie, stating, "I really, really liked it, tremendously. Phillips is saying f— you to all of them, and he embodies the spirit of the Joker itself."

Conclusion

As critics and filmmakers continue to react to "Joker: Folie à Deux," one thing is clear: this sequel is as divisive as the character it portrays. What remains to be seen is whether the film can weather the storm of criticism and eventually find its rightful place in the cinematic landscape.