Joker: Folie à Deux plot recap, spoiler-light
While awaiting trial at Arkham State Hospital for crimes committed two years prior, Arthur Fleck struggles with his dual identity. His lawyer, Maryanne Stewart, prepares a defense based on dissociative identity disorder, aiming to blame the Joker persona for the murders. During a music therapy session, Arthur meets Harleen Quinzel, known as Lee.
Lee shares a passion for the Joker and claims to have a similarly troubled background. The two form an intense bond driven by shared delusions that manifest as musical performances. Lee starts a fire during a prison film screening as a diversion, leading to Arthur being placed in solitary confinement before she is eventually released.
When the trial begins, Assistant District Attorney Harvey Dent presents witnesses to prove Arthur is fully sane and responsible. Maryanne discovers that Lee has fabricated her entire backstory as a psychiatry student from a wealthy family, having committed herself voluntarily just to meet him. When confronted, Lee confesses to the lies but claims she is pregnant.
What happens at the end of Joker: Folie à Deux?
Key takeaways
- Arthur Fleck ultimately rejects his Joker persona during his trial and takes full responsibility for his past actions.
