Yep, Joker 2 is terrible, IMO But, IMO, it already showed signs of no purpose in the first movie.

Good cinematography means nothing if the movie is empty. And the first one already made me feel like they were trying to sell me a concept that was impossible.

The second one doesn’t even have a concept. It just has depressing musical numbers. Any possibility of a good storyline is dumped so they can show more memeable joker reels.

So, to me, a terrible rating is completely justified.

I just saw it today. Can confirm - it’s bad. Bad enough I’m upset it exists, because it practically taints the first.

The plot is pretty weak, and to make it worse, sporadically there are flashes that make you think it’s finally building towards something, and then it just fizzles.

With very few exceptions, the songs are bad both in terms of the music and the lyrics, and they slow the movie to a crawl.

Additionally, Lady Gaga’s lip synching is shameful, especially considering she’s most famous for music. Her performance is otherwise fine, but it feels like they could have put anyone in there. She didn’t bring anything to the role.

Joaquin Phoenix’s performance is pretty good, and the cinematography is good. But… Don’t see it. Definitely don’t pay for it. I wish I had my money and my time back.