i]Joker 2: Dolie à Deux[/i] was one of the most anticipated movies of 2024, but it failed to meet expectations and flopped in every way. Despite being considered one of the biggest disappointments of recent years, it managed to impress a prolific gaming industry director: Hideo Kojima.
The 2019 film was an unexpected success, grossing over $1 billion worldwide against a budget of just $55 million. While it received mixed reviews from critics, audiences enjoyed it for its dramatic storyline, and Joaquin Phoenix won an Oscar for his performance as Arthur Fleck.
With this legacy, expectations were high for Joker 2. However, its musical approach and other creative choices failed to resonate with audiences. In the end, it received extremely negative reviews and struggled commercially, earning just $200 million.
Although the general consensus is negative, it’s clear that the Todd Phillips-directed film has its fans who defend it—and surprisingly, Hideo Kojima is one of them.
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Hideo Kojima shares his opinion on Joker 2: Dolie à Deux, one of the most divisive films of 2024
It’s no secret that the head of Kojima Productions is an enthusiastic fan of the film and TV industry. As he works on Death Stranding 2 and other projects for Microsoft and Sony, he often shares his thoughts on the movies and series he enjoys in his free time.
Through a post on his personal account, Hideo Kojima finally spoke about the controversial Warner Bros. and DC Comics movie sequel. He first highlighted the opening animated sequence, saying it reminded him of classic Looney Tunes cartoons, and then delved into the movie’s central theme: the duality between Arthur Fleck and the Joker.
“In the trial that follows, the question of his multiple personalities is debated from beginning to end: Is he the Joker, or is he Arthur? Is the Joker another personality (his shadow)? Who exactly is Arthur? This revelation eventually transforms into a metaperspective.”
The Metal Gear Solid and Death Stranding director raises another intriguing question: Was it the character of the Joker that captivated audiences in the previous film, or was it Arthur? He also discusses the rise of comic book movies that center on villains, asking his audience if antagonists can also be heroes.
In the end, Hideo Kojima believes that the reception of Joker 2: Dolie à Deux will change over the coming decades. While he understands the divided opinions, he praises the lead actors’ performances as outstanding.
"In the next 10 or 20 years, the reputation of this movie will likely change along with the spread of future superhero movies. It may take some time to truly become a 'Dolie à Deux.' But there’s no doubt everyone loved Joaquin and Lady Gaga in this movie.”
So, tell us, do you agree with the Japanese creator’s opinion? Let us know in the comments.
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