Warner Bros to lose $150 to $200 million because of Joker: Folie à Deux's poor box office show

Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, two powerhouse performers are unable to pull audiences to theatres for their latest release, Joker: Folie a Deux, sequel to 2019 billion-dollar hit Joker. While Joker was a massive disruptor at the box office, the new film which offers a look at what happened to Batman’s biggest foe, has bombed.

So far, Joker: Folie a Deux has grossed only $51.5 million domestically and $165 million globally after two weeks of release. If we compare it with the previous film, the first Joker had generated $96.2 million domestically and $248.4 million globally after three days of release. The sequel won’t earn anywhere near that much by the end of its theatrical run. According to projections, the film will stall at a lifetime gross of $65 million domestically and $210 million to $215 million globally.

Big loss for Warner Bros. with Joker 2?

If these reports turn out to be true, it’s major trouble for the top bosses at Warner Bros. since Joker 2 was made at a cost of $200 billion. It took another $100 million to market and distribute. At this rate, the film won’t get anywhere close to the $450 million needed to break even in its theatrical run.

Sources at Warner Bros. say the movie will break even at $375 million.

In a statement, Warner Bros. spokesperson said, “Any estimates suggested by anonymous ‘insiders’ or ‘rival executives’ are grossly wrong and continues a trend where rumour is reported as fact. The film continues to play in theatrical release, included with this week’s opening in China, and will continue to earn revenue throughout its home viewing and ancillary run.”

Joker 2 was greenlit after the massive success of Joker. The film also won two Oscars. Directed by Todd Phillips, Joker 2is about Joaquin Phoenix (returning as disturbed stand-up Arthur Fleck) with Lady Gaga (joining as fellow Arkham inmate Harleen “Lee” Quinzel).