"Joker: Folie à Deux" premiered last month at the Venice Film Festival, where it received polarizing reviews from critics. Many outlets, however, agreed that the film was destined for a harsh reception upon its wider release. This week, following its theatrical debut, the sequel indeed landed a dismal "D" grade from the prominent North American box office research firm CinemaScore, marking a new low.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, "Joker: Folie à Deux"'s box office performance has also fallen significantly short of expectations, with a disappointing opening weekend. The film earned just $20 million in North America last Friday, including $7 million from Thursday previews, and is projected to open below $50 million.
In 2019, the original "Joker" opened to a stunning $96.2 million and ultimately grossed over $1 billion worldwide, setting a record for the highest-grossing R-rated film in history—a record only recently surpassed by "Deadpool & Wolverine" this year. Unfortunately, the sequel has failed to replicate that success.
The report highlights that even poorly performing superhero films typically fare better with CinemaScore audiences. The 2019 "Joker" earned a "B+" grade. Last year's "The Marvels," which had a dismal $46.2 million opening, and "The Flash," which garnered mixed reactions and a $55 million debut, both received "B" ratings. Even the notorious "Sony's Spider-Man Universe" box office disappointments, "Madame Web" and "Morbius," managed "C+" grades.
Despite the initial reception, the film is still expected to contend during next year's awards season, particularly for the undeniable performances from Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga.
In the coming weeks, "Joker: Folie à Deux" is slated for release in Asian markets, including Japan and China. The original "Joker" was not released in China due to its themes of public rebellion against corrupt systems and elites. Warner Bros. reportedly anticipates an international opening weekend gross of $80 million to $85 million for the sequel.
via： THR