Joker (2019)

Life is crazy sometimes. And in the world of entertainment, there is one character that embodies crazy nearly perfectly: The Joker. Created for DC, this character has become one of the most popular and psychotic of any character that deals in the realm of crazy. And since his creation from 1940, he has been portrayed by many people in the realm of both television and film. The newest incarnation, played by Joaquin Phoenix, is the subject of the film “Joker”, directed and co-written by Todd Phillips who is best known for more crude comedies like “The Hangover” trilogy. While there is some plot elements that don't add up, especially with the finished product, “Joker” excels on a technical level, and is eye candy at its finest. There's also the fact about how disturbing the initial movie is, but we'll get there when we get there. But for now, “Joker” is a unique character study about one man can see the world as nothing more than crazy.

The story follows a man named Arthur Fleck, (Phoenix), a guy who wants nothing more than to be a stand up comedian. Just like his mentor Murray Franklin (Robert De Niro). However, Arthur is unstable and is seen uncontrollably laughing at what appears to be nothing. This all changes when he gets a glimpse of murder, and decides that the world is just too crazy. And becomes his alter ego: Joker.

Before we get into the violent content, let us discuss the film as a film first, and then dive into the controversy surrounding the film.

“Joker” is a technical masterpiece that needs to be seen to be believed.

First off, the main direction from Phillips is extraordinary. Phillips makes all of the scenes in this movie feel uncomfortable, uneasy, and disturbing. This is due to the film being shot by Lawrence Sher, making Gotham look gritty, unnerving, and unsettling. Plus, with the film taking place in the early 1980s, we get a sense of nostalgia, and familiarity.

The sound design is also impressive. Big props go to all of the people working on this film's sound design and editing; every little detail is heard throughout the speakers, and the ears would clap, if they could. Also, the music by Hildur Guðnadóttir is electrifying as well as scary. The usage of cellos makes the movie already unnerving as it is, but when compiled with an excellent selection of songs for the soundtrack, it makes the listening experience even more frightening.

Then there is Phoenix. Phoenix delivers an outstanding performance. It is definitely much different than any other version of the character that audiences have seen so far. But Phoenix gives the character personality with its tendency to shift from normal to psychotic behavior. And when he transitions into the persona of Joker, it is both disturbing, and fascinating to watch.

All of this takes place with the time frame of two hours. And that's another thing that I can praise the film for. For this movie, Jeff Groth edited the film, and here, it works beautifully. Everything is paced magnificently, and the usage of slow motion really helps out the film a lot. This is a film that keeps the viewer on their toes, and on the edges of their seats.

Now, let us talk about the content within the film itself.

For starters, the movie isn't that violent, only until the very last moments, anyway. In part, the film as a whole is much more disturbing to watch than it is violence. The way the character of Arthur becomes the Joker is shocking, yes, but personally, this production is adapting a very popular character that is already considered crazy. So, of course, there is bound to be some sort of talk among people. Plus, the character of the Joker in the comics, has done more sick and twisted executions far more than what this film has portrayed. On top of this, the movie is very dark, and deserves its R rating; this is not a movie for kids who enjoy comic book movies: this is for adults only.

Now, let's talk about what is wrong with the movie. After all, nobody's perfect...

The main problem with the film is with the story. Sure, it's a nice origin story, but, there are some problems with it. Most notably, some of the side characters are just that: side characters. We don't get a lot information regarding them, and yes, this is Arthur's story that's the main center of attention, but, at least give some of the minor characters some sort of importance within the context of the film. Also, the movie is very ambiguous with its execution of events, especially the ending. This is a movie perfect for analysis.

In conclusion, “Joker” embodies the crazy things that are happening, while also making it like a tragedy of it. It features a great performance, and can and will be discussion for many years to come. Put on a happy face, and embrace the madness from within yourself.