Joker: Folie a Deux (Joker 2) is the much-awaited sequel to the 2019 film Joker directed by Todd Phillips. This instalment continues the story of Arthur Fleck, portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix, who finds himself in Arkham Asylum, struggling with his identity and insanity. The film features Lady Gaga as Lee Quinzel, a character inspired by Harley Quinn, who becomes a key figure in Arthur’s chaotic journey. Let’s discuss below how much it can earn at the box office on the first day.
Joker 2 Box Office Collection Day 1 (India)
“Joker: Folie a Deux,” the much-awaited sequel to the 2019 blockbuster “Joker,” premieres in India on October 2, 2024, coinciding with the Gandhi Jayanti holiday. Early estimates suggest that the film earned around ₹7-9 crore (nett) on its opening day in India. The figure is based on advance bookings, with ticket sales of ₹2.95 crore reported before the first show began, indicating strong interest despite expectations being subdued by the film’s unique musical format18.
Joker 2 Collection Day 1 Worldwide
Globally, “Joker: Folie a Deux” is projected to open with a total box office collection between $130 million and $150 million by the end of its opening weekend. This includes an estimated $50 million to $65 million from North American theatres and approximately $80 million to $85 million from international markets347. These figures are far below the debut gross of the original film, which grossed $96.2 million domestically and over $1 billion worldwide.
Joker 2 Total Screens and Budget
The sequel is slated to be released in approximately 4,100 theatres in North America and has a budget of approximately $200 million compared to the original’s $55 million. This increased financial commitment raises questions about profitability, especially given the mixed critical reception and challenges its musical elements pose.
Joker 2 Cast and Crew
The film is directed by Todd Phillips, who returns to helm this sequel alongside co-writer Scott Silver. Joaquin Phoenix reprises his iconic role as Arthur Fleck, while Lady Gaga joins the cast as Harley Quinn, marking a significant addition to the storyline. Other notable cast members include Zazie Beetz as Sophie Dumond, Brendan Gleeson, and Catherine Keener in pivotal roles. The film’s music is composed by Hildur Guðnadóttir, who also scored the original “Joker,” adding continuity to the franchise’s soundscape.
Joker 2 Plot Overview
“Joker: Folie à Deux” continues the story of Arthur Fleck, who is now imprisoned in Arkham Asylum. Here, he encounters Harley Quinn, portrayed by Lady Gaga. The film explores their complex relationship amidst psychological turmoil and societal chaos. Unlike traditional musicals, Phillips has noted that while music plays a significant role in conveying emotions, it does not follow conventional musical structures. The narrative delves into themes of love, madness, and societal rejection, maintaining the dark tone established in the first film.
Conclusion
As “Joker: Folie à Deux” embarks on its box office journey, it faces high expectations set by its predecessor while also contending with unique challenges inherent to its genre. The initial collection figures suggest a promising start, but whether it can sustain momentum and achieve profitability remains uncertain. With an ambitious budget and mixed critical reception, audiences will be keenly watching how this sequel unfolds both critically and commercially in the coming weeks.
