Joker Movie Review

The new Joker film was released on October 3rd, 2019. The director, Todd Philips created an origin story for the Joker who is played by Joaquin Phoenix.

Unlike the portrayal of the Joker in other films, in this particular one, the Joker is portrayed without the usual aspect of humor that is a key part of the huge amount of successes that the Joker has had in his appearances throughout different films.

‘Joker’ had an absolutely amazing opening at the box office earlier this week. It opened with over $234 million USD even without a premiere in China even while having an R-rating.

In this film, Arthur Fleck, who is mentally ill, faces challenges and obstacles in his life. Those obstacles ultimately forced him to the life of crime where he builds a cult and applies clown paint to cover up his identity.

Joaquin Phoenix plays Arthur Fleck on screen and his performance in the movie was impeccable. He was able to portray the dark and brutal life of Arthur and made it believable. It is clear that Joaquin Phoenix had fully embraced the role of Arthur Fleck and the Joker. He had to lose 52 pounds for the role because the director of the movie, Todd Phillips wanted the Joker to look “hungry, wolf-like, malnourished.”

The cinematography that was used in this movie was very carefully chosen. Each scene had its own purpose, and as Phillips described, “each shot was meant to feel unsettling”. And it was. When watching the movie, you go through different emotions. At some points you are feeling sympathy for Arthur Fleck, at other times, you would be horrified by the Joker.

As a fan of superhero films, ‘Joker’ is a must-watch. It gives you insight into why the joker is the way he is. Even if you are not a fan of movies that are dark, the storytelling and the performance by Joaquin Phoenix is something that cannot be missed.