The sequel to the acclaimed 2019 film, “Joker: Folie à Deux,” has had a tumultuous debut at the domestic box office, grossing $20 million in 4,102 theaters during Friday and preview screenings. Despite initial expectations of grossing between $50 and $65 million in its opening weekend, analysts suggest that the Warner Bros. film could end up with much more modest figures, falling below $50 million.
With this performance, “Folie à Deux” appears on track to take first place at the domestic box office, although its debut will be significantly lower than that of its predecessor, which achieved an impressive $96.2 million in its debut.
In this new installment, Joaquin Phoenix reprises his role as the iconic Batman villain, accompanied by Lady Gaga, who plays Harleen “Lee” Quinzel, also known as Harley Quinn. This sequel not only presents itself as a psychological drama, but also incorporates musical elements, exploring the complex relationship between Joker and Harley. The film features a cast including Brendan Gleeson, Harry Lawtey and Catherine Keener.
Unlike the first film, which grossed a staggering $1.07 billion worldwide on a budget of just $65 million, “Folie à Deux” has faced a considerable challenge. Costing $200 million to produce, it has received less favorable reviews, earning a disappointing “D” grade in CinemaScore’s survey of early viewers.
Box Office Competition
Meanwhile, other films have been fighting for recognition at the box office. “The Wild Robot,” for example, took second place, grossing $4.9 million on its second Friday, which represents a 56% drop from its premiere. The sci-fi adventure film from Universal and DreamWorks Animation has already surpassed $50 million in its domestic total.
In third place, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” Tim Burton’s sequel, grossed $2.7 million in its fifth weekend, bringing in more than $250 million in total at the U.S. box office. “Transformers One” placed fourth with $1.3 million, while Blumhouse’s “Speak No Evil” took in $2.8 million, looking to stay relevant in its fourth weekend.
Finally, Lionsgate’s new film, “White Bird,” which connects to “Wonder” (2017), began its run at the box office with $660,000 in 1,018 theaters upon its release.
As “Joker: Folie à Deux” faces an uncertain opening weekend, the film industry is closely watching how its run at the box office will play out. While the Joker name continues to attract audiences, the outcome of this sequel raises questions about viewer expectations and the future of DC Comics adaptations on film.