Do you need to watch the first Joker film to understand Joker: Folie à Deux?

Joker: Folie à Deux is one of the most anticipated films of the year. Fans have been waiting months to see where director Todd Phillips and star Joaquin Phoenix would take the frachise after the massive success of the first film. Especially given the inclusion of new star, Lady Gaga.

Now that Joker: Folie à Deux is finally here, though, there is a question of connectivity. It can be tough to determine which sequels require in-depth knowledge of the first film, and which stand on their own as fun adventures. Will you be able to enjoy the new DC blockbuster in a bubble, or will you be lost if you haven't seen the Oscar-winning original?

Joker is essential viewing before Joker: Folie à Deux

Joker: Folie à Deux falls firmly in the latter camp. As a sequel, it is a direct continuation of the 2019 film. So much so, in fact, that going into it not having seen the first film will leave the viewer confused as to what's happening.

As the trailers suggest, Joker: Folie à Deux picks up after the events of Joker, and sees the titular criminal (Phoenix) behind bars. The film also revolves around a court case, in which Joker is put on trial for the crimes he committed during the first one.

While the sequel does a solid job of providing context and rehashing the events of Joker, those who are unfamiliar with the events and the backstory of the titular character are bound to run into spots in which things get a little muddled. We won't get into spoilers, though!

The director intended to make a direct follow up

During a profile with Variety, Todd Phillips noted that Joker: Folie à Deux actually delves further into the headspace of the characters, which is something that can only be fully appreciated if one has the context of the first film in mind.:

"The goal of this movie is to make it feel like it was made by crazy people. The inmates are running the asylum."

Joker is currently streaming on Max, in case you want to watch (or rewatch) it before you see the new one!