Joker was inspired by the animated book back in 1988 “The Killing joke”. The shoot was done in famous cities like New York, New Jersey etc. Joker was a blockbuster grossing over $1 Billion, making it the first R-rated film to reach this level presented by Todd Phillips.
Set in a gritty, crime-ridden Gotham City, the film stars Joaquin Phoenix as Arthur Fleck, a struggling comedian whose descent into madness leads him to adopt the persona of the Joker.
Todd Phillips Work
The review provides the film’s premise and tone, highlighting its exploration of themes such as mental illness, social isolation, and societal inequality.
Plot of Joker
A story based on a life of a psychological and an abnormal personality named “Arthar” who stayed with her mother “penny fleck” in the City of Gotham where cruelty and unemployment vibes surrounds the environment. Arthur had aproblem of laughing at unsuitable times.
Arthur works as a comedian. A Party Clown, after he got bumped by some teenagers, his co-worker “Randal” handed him a weapon for his protection. He then meets a single mother Sophie and invites her at the show in the night club.
At the children hospital, while performing he dropped his gun on the floor and there was an awkward silence. He then got fired by his boss for bringing a gun in the hospital. While going back home saddened by the continuous events, at the subway he got beaten by three business men of Wayne Enterprise. Arthur shoots them and got away from the scene.
Protest, riots started when Thomas Wayne addresses the people of city as the “Clowns”. Later due to the protest the funding of social services stopped, leaving Arthur no one who could prescribe him his medications.
Arthur went on a date with Sophie in the night club, where he received a standing ovation even though he had problem with deliverance of jokes. “Murray Franklin” a host mocked Arthur by playing that performance clip.
While resting at home, he saw a letter written to Thomas Wayne by his mother, claiming Arthur as Thomas unlawful son. Arthur goes to Wayne Manor, meets Bruce, but runs away after a scuffle with the family butler “Alfred”.
When he gets home saw her mother getting on an ambulance because she suffered a stroke. Two police officers approached Arthur and asked him regarding any kind of involvement with the deaths at the subway.
Arthur then meets Thomas in a public place where Mr Waynetry to clarify him about the idiosyncratic beliefs of her mother. Disturbed, Arthur visits the hospital and took penny’s files. After reading he came to know that his present condition was because penny allowed her boyfriend to hurt her and Arthur.
The Live Joker
Arthur goes to neighbors flat where afraid Sophie asked Arthur to go back, the above meet ups, all were Arthur’s delusion. The next day Arthur kills penny. While at home he receives a call from a show hosted by Murray due to his unpredicted popular clip. Later the ex co-workers “Randal” and “Gary” gives him a visit. Arthur brutally murders Randal, leaving Gary unhurt because of the good treatment he gave to Arthur
At live show “Joker” later claimed that he killed that business man at the subway and delivered a tirade about how people ignore the disturbed individual. Joker killed Murray at live telecast, exclaiming that he finds satisfaction in killing and got arrested.
One rioter killed Wayne family leaving Bruce alive. An Ambulance car full of rioters crashed the police car freeing Arthur where he dances to cheer the crowd.
At Arkham, Arthur laughs at his joke, but refuses to tell the psychiatrist. He runs from Arkham leaving blooded footprints. Todd Phillips aimed to entice potential viewers by conveying the film’s unique and complex take on a well-known character while also acknowledging its dark and unsettling nature.
Broader Aspects of Joker
- Character Study: Todd Phillips work on “Joker” delves deep into the character of Arthur Fleck, a mentally troubled and socially isolated man who eventually becomes the Joker. The film explores his descent into madness, examining the societal factors and personal experiences that contribute to his transformation.
- Social Commentary: The movie presents a dark and gritty portrayal of Gotham City, drawing attention to social inequality, corruption, and the failure of systems meant to support the marginalized. It explores the consequences of a society that neglects and mistreats its most vulnerable citizens.
- Mental Health: “Joker” examines mental health issues and the struggles faced by individuals dealing with mental illness. Arthur Fleck’s character is portrayed as a man who grapples with various psychological disorders, highlighting the importance of empathy, understanding, and accessible mental health care.
- Identity and Alienation: The Todd Phillips explores themes of identity and alienation, portraying Arthur Fleck’s disconnect from society and his search for belonging. It delves into the idea of how isolation and mistreatment can shape an individual’s perception of self and their place in the world.
- Cinematic Influences: “Joker” pays homage to classic films and draws inspiration from various cinematic sources. It incorporates elements from psychological character studies and films from the 1970s, such as Martin Scorsese’s “Taxi Driver” and “The King of Comedy.”
- Performance: Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of the Joker received critical acclaim and won him numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Actor. His performance captures the character’s vulnerability, intensity, and transformation, adding layers of complexity to the iconic villain.
- Controversies: “Joker” generated significant discussion and debate upon its release, with some critics and audiences divided over its portrayal of violence and the potential impact on real-world events. The movie sparked conversations about the responsibility of media in portraying violence and the role of art in reflecting societal issues.
Todd Phillips focus on “Joker” is notable for its departure from traditional superhero films, offering a darker and more character-driven exploration of the Joker’s origins. It delves into themes of social unrest, mental health, and the power of perception, making it a thought-provoking and polarizing film in the superhero genre.
