Joker: Folie à Deux new teaser released
Fans have slammed the director of the Joker sequel after what they claim is an 'excuse' for the film's box office failure as some even called for Todd Phillips to refund viewers for the price of their tickets.
Despite the monumental success of the original 2019 Joker, which bagged a staggering $1 billion, Phillips' latest instalment has failed to ignite similar financial fireworks, having grossed a modest $201.6 million globally. This barely scrapes past the production's estimated budget.
In an effort to reinvigorate the cinema-going experience, which has seen a dip as home streaming becomes increasingly popular, Todd Phillips, who also directed The Hangover, shared his thoughts with Empire magazine.
Suggesting a radical change to current pre-screening practices, Phillips proposed: "Stop showing commercials before the movies. We've paid for our tickets. We're excited to be there. The commercials tend to take the air out of the room."
However, this suggestion did not sit well with many film fans, leading to a wave of scepticism and ridicule directed at Phillips, reports the Mirror.
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An array of responses were posted on social media with one user stating: "This is the funniest excuse for a film mega-flopping I've ever heard."
Another opinion read: "I honestly don't mind them, the director should stop making excuses, the movie totally sucked!".
One disgruntled movie-goer expressed their dissatisfaction with the latest film featuring the infamous Batman villain, demanding a refund: "He should refund my money for seeing that Joker movie. That movie damaged the Joker brand."
Other cinema enthusiasts have rallied behind the industry amidst its financial struggles.
Despite the irritation caused by frequent advertising breaks, some viewers recognise their necessity for the survival of cinemas.
On X, previously known as Twitter, an individual remarked: "The ads annoy me, but I assume that's how cinema chains make money through people paying for that ad space."
Another chimed in: "If there were no commercials we'd have to pay more for our tickets. Duh. Is he aware that demand for movies in theatres is collapsing? At all? Duh? And collapsing in part because of sucky movies like his."
Yet, there are those who support the idea of fewer adverts, with several UK fans noting the lengthy pre-film advertisement sessions.
"Here in the UK you get 15-20 minutes of ads. Then when they start the trailers, they now show ads disguised as trailers. So ridiculous," shared one film fan.
Another, commenting on the situation, proposed: "Cinemas should set aside a couple ad free showings which come at a higher ticket price."
In a recent interview with Empire magazine, several renowned directors including Paul Feig of Bridesmaids fame and the creator of cult classic The Guest, shared their views on the future of cinema in the age of streaming.
They agreed that while streaming platforms can be both a boon and a bane for the industry.
Joker: Folie a Deux is in cinemas now.
