The story is sad and often unpleasant, as it was in the first film, but avoids being redundant and obvious, which was most of “Joker” (2019). Aside from the riveting sequence that pit Phoenix against Robert De Niro, there is little in the blockbuster original that I’d care to revisit.

The controversy, pre-release hype and accolades attached to Phoenix’s performance made it a phenomenon, but here is a follow-up that is not only better but, amusingly, disinterested in audience adoration.

Although “Joker 2” is a musical, this a creative choice that avoids any obvious or commercial directions, even with Lady Gaga in the cast. At times, we’re seeing musical numbers break out, reflecting the fantasies of the characters.