Francis Ford Coppola Shows Support for "Joker: Folie à Deux" Amidst Mixed Reviews and Low Box Office Returns
Francis Ford Coppola, the legendary American director, has voiced his support for the team behind "Joker: Folie à Deux", following its release in both U.S. and global theaters. Despite receiving harsh criticism from both audiences and critics and struggling to match the box office success of its predecessor, Coppola expressed admiration for the film and its director, Todd Phillips.
A Surprising Endorsement
Taking to his Instagram account, Coppola shared the official poster for "Joker: Folie à Deux," praising Todd Phillips' work. He commented:
"Todd Phillips' films always astonish and entertain me. Ever since The Hangover, he’s been ahead of the audience, delivering the unexpected. Congratulations on Joker, and I felt proud when the film’s cinematographer, Lawrence Sher, mentioned he drew inspiration from my film, One From the Heart."
The Film's Reception and Box Office Performance
Despite Coppola's praise, "Joker: Folie à Deux" has faced significant backlash from both critics and fans. Many have compared it unfavorably to the first Joker film, which was a massive success in 2019. The sequel opened to $40 million in the U.S. box office and brought in $121 million globally during its first week. While these numbers are solid, they pale in comparison to the first Joker film, which grossed over $1 billion on a modest $55 million budget.
A Sequel to the Oscar-Winning "Joker"
The original Joker film, released in 2019, stunned the world with its gritty portrayal of Arthur Fleck, a man struggling with mental health issues who eventually becomes the notorious Joker. The movie earned two Oscars, including Best Actor for Joaquin Phoenix and Best Original Score. Its success defied expectations, and it was hailed for its intense, thought-provoking narrative and Phoenix’s unforgettable performance.
"Joker: Folie à Deux" marks a significant departure from the tone of the first film, bringing a mix of musical elements and a deeper exploration of Harley Quinn, played by Lady Gaga. Despite the change in direction, the film has struggled to live up to its predecessor in terms of both critical reception and box office success.
Coppola's Own Film Success
While supporting "Joker: Folie à Deux," Francis Ford Coppola has also been busy with his own projects. His latest film, "Megalopolis", a blend of drama and science fiction, is currently in theaters. The movie made $6 million in its opening weekend at the U.S. box office and grossed $8 million worldwide. While these numbers are modest compared to its $120 million production budget, the film has been generating interest due to Coppola's renowned filmmaking legacy.
Finally
Despite the polarizing reception of "Joker: Folie à Deux", Francis Ford Coppola's endorsement adds weight to the conversation surrounding the film's artistic value. As Coppola himself recognizes, Todd Phillips continues to push boundaries and surprise audiences, leaving fans curious about what lies ahead for the Joker saga.
