Joker

Joker (2019) is a dark psychological thriller directed by Todd Phillips, delving into the origins of the iconic villain through the story of Arthur Fleck, a troubled man who transforms into the Joker amidst a society that disregards him.

Synopsis

The film is set in 1981 Gotham City, a place plagued by crime and economic disparity. Arthur Fleck (played by Joaquin Phoenix) is a struggling comedian and part-time clown who lives with his ailing mother, Penny Fleck (played by Frances Conroy). Arthur suffers from a neurological disorder that causes him to laugh uncontrollably at inappropriate times, further isolating him from society.

Arthur’s life is a series of misfortunes and humiliations. He is constantly bullied and marginalized, both at work and on the streets. His dreams of becoming a successful stand-up comedian are crushed by the harsh realities of his mental health issues and societal neglect. Despite his efforts to find solace and connection, Arthur’s world continues to crumble around him.

One day, Arthur is assaulted by three men on a subway, leading him to fight back in a violent act of self-defense. This incident becomes a turning point for Arthur, as he begins to embrace his darker tendencies. Encouraged by the chaotic response from the public and inspired by a chance encounter with his idol, talk show host Murray Franklin (played by Robert De Niro), Arthur’s transformation into the Joker begins.

The film builds to a chilling climax as Arthur fully adopts his Joker persona, orchestrating a series of events that culminate in a city-wide uprising. His descent into madness and embrace of anarchy highlight the consequences of a society that fails to care for its most vulnerable members. Arthur’s final appearance on the Murray Franklin Show marks the completion of his transformation, as he delivers a shocking and violent performance that cements his new identity.

The story concludes with a deeply unsettling sense of ambiguity, leaving audiences to ponder the blurred lines between sanity and madness, reality and illusion. Joker offers a profound critique of societal failures and the human need for empathy and understanding.

  • Taglines: “Put on a happy face.”
  • Genres: Crime, Drama, Thriller
  • Duration: 122 minutes
  • Year: 2019
  • Rated: R
  • Metascore: 59

Interesting Facts

  • Joaquin Phoenix lost 52 pounds to play Arthur Fleck, significantly altering his physical appearance.
  • The film won two Academy Awards: Best Actor for Joaquin Phoenix and Best Original Score for Hildur Guðnadóttir.
  • Director Todd Phillips cited films like Taxi Driver and The King of Comedy as inspirations for the tone and style of Joker.
  • The movie grossed over $1 billion worldwide, making it the highest-grossing R-rated film of all time.
  • Joaquin Phoenix’s performance received widespread acclaim, earning him numerous awards and nominations.

What Makes the Film Great?

Joker is celebrated for its intense and unsettling portrayal of mental illness and societal breakdown. Joaquin Phoenix’s masterful performance, combined with the film’s provocative narrative and haunting score, creates a powerful and thought-provoking cinematic experience that challenges audiences to reflect on the darker aspects of human nature and society.

Director

Todd Phillips directed Joker, bringing a new and gritty perspective to the comic book villain’s origin story. Phillips is also known for directing the comedy trilogy The Hangover and the drama War Dogs.

Cast

  • Joaquin Phoenix: Arthur Fleck / Joker
  • Robert De Niro: Murray Franklin
  • Frances Conroy: Penny Fleck
  • Zazie Beetz: Sophie Dumond
  • Brett Cullen: Thomas Wayne
  • Shea Whigham: Detective Burke
  • Bill Camp: Detective Garrity