Warner Bros.’ much-anticipated sequel, *Joker: Folie à Deux*, helmed by Todd Phillips, kicked off its opening night with a respectable $7 million earned in preview screenings. This number, although seemingly promising, presents a complicated picture. The film’s opening estimates suggest it could potentially reach $50 million, but this projection must be viewed through the lens of its substantial $190 million budget. When compared to high-grossing films such as *Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning* and *No Time to Die*, which saw similar preview earnings, one might feel optimistic. However, the true measure of success lies not just in initial revenues but also in audience engagement and satisfaction.
A stark contrast arises when analyzing preview revenues compared to the first *Joker* film from 2019, which garnered a remarkable $13.3 million in previews and broke records with an opening weekend haul of $96.2 million—the largest October debut in history. The 47% decline in preview earnings raises questions about audience enthusiasm and the sequel’s appeal. While it was anticipated that the sequel’s unique approach, merging musical elements within the narrative, might pose a challenge, the severity of the audience’s rejection is alarming.
The real conundrum lies in the audience’s reaction as indicated by the Comscore/Screen Engine PostTrak metrics. With the film reportedly receiving a dismal 1 out of 2 stars and only 40% positive sentiment among early viewers, the question arises: Is the novelty of Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga enough to attract the audience? The low ratings could suggest a disconnect between fan expectations and what the film ultimately delivers. Contrast this with films such as *Megalopolis*, which similarly faced lackluster reception yet continued to garner attention in subsequent outings.
The disappointing audience feedback—where only 24% of viewers are inclined to recommend *Joker: Folie à Deux* to friends—paints a worrying picture for the film’s prospects over the coming weekend. The Rotten Tomatoes audience score sits at a meager 37%, signaling that critical appraisal may not be on the film’s side either. Early reviews have steadily declined, slipping from a seemingly favorable 62% to a troubling 39% fresh rating.
As filmgoers seek deeper connections with the narratives they consume, the troubling signs for *Joker: Folie à Deux* could indicate a challenging road ahead. CinemaScore ratings, which often tend to reflect a kinder view than PostTrak, remain to be seen; they may provide a glimmer of hope, but the trajectory thus far is concerning. Ultimately, if audience engagement does not improve throughout the weekend, the film may face a downward spiral that could tarnish the legacy of its predecessor. With blockbuster expectations and a prominent cast, one must wonder: will cinematic innovation resonate, or will it simply leave the audience wanting more?