By Clayton Davis
Lady Gaga is likely gearing up for her first Supporting Actress Oscar campaign for *Joker: Folie à Deux*. But can she carry a film that's been critically panned?
The sequel follows Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) as he’s institutionalized at Arkham Asylum, grappling with his fractured psyche. While there, he forms a bond with fellow inmate Lee (played by Gaga), and the film leans into musical elements that underscore Arthur’s chaotic mind.
Although *Joker: Folie à Deux* hasn’t been well received by critics, with a 35% Rotten Tomatoes score, Gaga’s performance could still attract attention, especially given her awards pedigree. Gaga's portrayal of Harley Quinn is a dark, restrained take on the character, often supporting Phoenix’s Fleck, but still leaving a strong impression. Her performance, alongside Leigh Gill reprising his role from the first *Joker*, stands out as one of the film’s few highlights.
However, Gaga faces stiff competition in the Supporting Actress category, going up against other notable contenders like Selena Gomez (*Emilia Pérez*), Ariana Grande (*Wicked*), and Jennifer Lopez (*Unstoppable*). Can Warner Bros. secure a nomination for Gaga despite the film’s poor reviews?
The first *Joker* was divisive but still managed 11 Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, in 2019, competing against heavyweights like *1917* and *Parasite*. Despite a middling 68% Rotten Tomatoes score, it became one of the lowest-rated films ever to land a Best Picture nod. Could *Joker 2* follow a similar path?
Gaga has proven herself an awards darling in the past. She became the second person ever, after Mary J. Blige, to be nominated for both acting and songwriting in the same year for *A Star Is Born* in 2018, winning the Oscar for Best Original Song. Although snubbed for *House of Gucci* in 2021, Gaga’s industry clout ensures that voters will likely give her performance serious consideration.
Aside from Gaga, *Joker: Folie à Deux* boasts a roster of behind-the-scenes talent that could still garner nominations. Oscar winners like composer Hildur Guðnadóttir, cinematographer Lawrence Sher, and production designer Mark Friedberg all return from the original *Joker*, making the film a contender in technical categories.
Then there’s Joaquin Phoenix, who won an Oscar for his portrayal of Arthur Fleck in the first film. His transformation in *Folie à Deux* is even more physically and emotionally intense, a type of performance the Academy often rewards. Phoenix’s chances in the Best Actor race might benefit from a slightly less crowded field this year, giving him a potential edge over other contenders like Timothée Chalamet (*A Complete Unknown*) and Paul Mescal (*Gladiator II*).
Despite its poor reviews, *Joker: Folie à Deux* could still find itself in the Oscar conversation. Films like *Bohemian Rhapsody*, *Vice*, and *Green Book* all faced critical backlash but earned major Oscar nods. Could *Folie à Deux* be this year’s divisive contender? Time will tell, but Gaga and Phoenix might just have what it takes to push through.
.jpeg)
0 Comments