Saturday, October 5, 2019

The Joker Movie

The "Joker" movie, released on October 4, 2019, directed by Todd Phillips and starring Puerto Rican actor Joaquin Phoenix, has been a subject of much discussion and analysis. It's a film that delves deep into the psyche of its protagonist, Arthur Fleck, and provides a dark and gritty character study that deviates from the typical superhero genre.

The movie presents a Gotham City that is rife with crime, corruption, and a growing chasm between the wealthy and the poor. Arthur Fleck, a failed comedian struggling with mental illness, is at the center of this chaos. His descent into madness and transformation into the titular Joker is portrayed with a raw intensity by Phoenix, whose performance garnered critical acclaim and an Academy Award for Best Actor.

"Joker" is not just a comic book movie; it's a social commentary on issues such as mental health, societal neglect, and the consequences of a world that pushes its outcasts to the brink. The film's dark tone and violent content have sparked conversations about the portrayal of mental illness and the potential impact on audiences.

The cinematography and score complement the film's somber mood, creating an immersive experience that's both unsettling and captivating. The narrative is a slow burn, gradually building tension and unease until it reaches its climactic moments of shocking violence.  The color tone of the movie begins with a bluish hue showing the depression Arthur Fleck is wallowing in. It then turn brighter throughout the movie showing his transformation into "Joker."  Throughout the film we can see a "countdown." Numbers are showing counting down to the main climax of the film.  Easter eggs are present. We see the apartment of Arthur Fleck indicate the number of Jokers that have been on screen. We see the yellow fireman pole from Batman near the young Bruce Wayne at his mansion. Phoenix in his masterful acting skills presents physical nuances of each Joker, from Romero to Heath Ledger.  We see behind Joker the image of Murray with half of it looking like Jack Nicholson's Joker from Batman 1989. A police carrying Joker has the tag number 9189 paying homage to the Batman movie. During the riots, we see a theater showcasing "Zorro," which is where Batman's creators got the idea from for the superhero. 

Critics have praised "Joker" for its bold approach and departure from the mainstream portrayal of comic book characters. It's a film that challenges viewers, asking them to empathize with a character who is traditionally seen as a villain. This perspective shift is one of the reasons "Joker" stands out in the landscape of comic book adaptations.

In conclusion, "Joker" is a film that will be remembered for its unflinching portrayal of a man's spiral into darkness. It's a character-driven piece that pushes boundaries and provokes thought, leaving a lasting impression on its audience. Whether viewed as a standalone piece or within the broader context of the DC universe, "Joker" is a cinematic experience that demands attention and reflection.  The film is a masterpiece!  The acting, cinemetography, music all work well together.  I remember at the theater it was so quiet one could hear a pin drop, so to speak. People were intensely paying attention to the film. At the end, everyone applauded in unison and rightfully so. The movie is extremely powerful. At times, we felt sorry for Joker and all the things he had to deal with.  The movie gave us a perspective many movies often neglect.  It was also fun seeing the Shakespeare steps, a place I know very well and that I use to walk up to Ogden Avenue in the Bronx.  Many places were filmed in the Bronx showing homage to the birthplace of Batman and the Joker.  This movie is a work of art. 

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