All it takes is one bad day. That is a classic saying from Joker’s comic book past. But what you think you know about Batman’s arch villain versus what you’ll see in the film Joker may shock you. Warning, spoilers ahead…
Joker tells the complicated and tragic story of Arthur Fleck, brilliantly played by Joaquin Phoenix who should nab at the very least an Oscar nomination if not win it for his work. Arthur is a man who much like many of us average Joes, struggles through everyday life. He lives in Gotham working as a clown-for-hire by day with aspirations of being a stand-up comic. Gotham is a ticking time bomb and represents a microcosm of today’s fractured reality between those in power and those who don’t. Constantly being laughed at and being taken advantage of, Arthur makes one bad decision that will cause a chain reaction that will shape not only his future but become the catalyst for another.
As a person who works in the special needs field, this film was a huge eye opener for me. Director Todd Philips does a masterful job with this gritty, take no prisoner’s character study that puts a spotlight on how society looks at our less fortunate. I think Joker will either be loved or hated. There will be no in between. Fans of Batman hoping for the Dark Knight to appear will be disappointed. Frankly, it’s not about him. Yes the Wayne presence is very much in play here, in particular that of Thomas Wayne who hopes to become of Mayor of Gotham. But there is also a frightening encounter between Arthur and a young Bruce Wayne at the gates of Wayne Manor.
There is a lot to digest here. There is a lot to think about as the film moves along and certainly as the screen fades to black. Joker may be a comic inspired film but it takes no real inspiration for any one Joker related story. Again, this may turn some fans off but I like the fact that it was a fresh take that makes sadly, perfect sense for such a character.
Directed by: Todd Philips
Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, Zazue Beetz, Bill Camp, Frances Conroy and Brett Cullen
R 122 MINS
JOKER **** (out of 5 stars)
May the Dork be with you,
JPB
The Dork Knight
