After a disappointing box office performance and mixed reviews, Joker: Folie à Deux will be available for digital rental or purchase on October 29, 2024, just weeks after its theatrical debut on October 4. This decision follows the film’s failure to replicate the monumental success of its predecessor, which grossed over $1 billion globally in 2019.
Box Office Performance and Financial Concerns
Despite high expectations, Joker: Folie à Deux opened to a mere $37.8 million domestically, falling short of initial projections. The sequel has thus far earned approximately $165 million worldwide, which is considered a significant disappointment given its $200 million production budget and an additional $100 million in marketing costs. Financial analysts predict the film could incur losses ranging from $125 to $200 million following its theatrical run, although Warner Bros. has refuted these claims, stating:
“Any estimates suggested by anonymous ‘insiders’ or ‘rival executives’ are grossly wrong and continue a trend where rumor is reported as fact. The film continues to play in theatrical release, including with this week’s opening in China, and will continue to earn revenue throughout its home viewing and ancillary run.”
Critical Reception and Audience Feedback
The film has faced significant criticism for its musical elements, tone, and perceived mismanagement of talent. Poor word of mouth has greatly contributed to its struggles at the box office, with the movie earning a “D” CinemaScore, a new low for comic book adaptations. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds critic and audience scores of 33% and 32%, respectively. Despite the backlash, some industry veterans, including Francis Ford Coppola, have praised director Todd Phillips for his creative vision.
Release Timeline for Digital and Streaming
Joker: Folie à Deux is expected to follow a relatively quick release pattern for digital platforms, as it will be available for digital rental and purchase on October 29, 2024. Typically, Warner Bros. films have transitioned to digital formats anywhere between 30 and 50 days after their theatrical release. Given recent trends, it is reasonable to anticipate a digital release around the 25-day mark, which aligns with films like Furiosa, which debuted on PVOD just 31 days after its theatrical launch.
Streaming Release Expectations
Once Joker: Folie à Deux is available for digital rental, many fans are eagerly wondering when it will arrive on streaming services. Historically, Warner Bros. films have moved to the Warner-owned Max streaming service two to three months after their theatrical release.
Looking at recent Warner Bros. releases, the anticipated streaming timeline for Joker: Folie à Deux suggests it could arrive on Max around mid-December 2024, shortly after its Blu-ray release, which is set for December 17, 2024. This pattern follows recent releases where films have debuted on streaming about a week after their physical media launch.
The Cast and Crew
Joker: Folie à Deux features a star-studded cast, including:
- Joaquin Phoenix as the Joker
- Lady Gaga
- Brendan Gleeson
- Catherine Keener
- Zazie Beetz
- Steve Coogan
- Harry Lawtey
The film is directed by Todd Phillips, who co-wrote the screenplay with Scott Silver.