Den of Geeks 👓 Style Review — Joker

 Joker review: his greatest joke yet

Todd Phillips presents an edgy and gritty take on the Clown Prince of Crime, featuring the electrifying Joaquin Phoenix

By F.W.C | December 23, 2023

Perhaps one of the most shocking developments from DC in recent years, Joker emerged unexpectedly, surprising fans with its gritty and raw character study of Batman's greatest rival. In an origin story that delves deep into the social commentary on the civil unrest and madness of Gotham city’s crime and poverty, and how it created the iconic villain. It’s no secret that DC has been loose and flexible with the Joker’s origins in canon. In almost every appearance, he’s had a slightly different origin story, unlike his counterparts with very concrete beginnings. So it was a surprise for many when we were presented with a gritty, edgy, and Batman-free solo origin story.

Joaquin Phoenix, portraying Arthur Fleck, delivers a compelling performance as a mentally ill outcast living on the fringe of society, struggling to get by. Troubled by psychotic breakdowns and a compulsive condition that makes him laugh, the film pushes us to the edge of sanity. The narrative alternates between the mundane life of Arthur Fleck—a failed clown and stand-up comedian—and his more psychotic Joker persona. 

Arthur’s life spirals downwards increasingly drastic fashion as he’s failed by the healthcare system to get adequate care and medication, leading him to situations that slowly but surely push him to the brink of madness. Trying desperately to slowly reclaim his life through increasingly violent outbursts, it's never entirely clear if or when any of Joker’s actions are real or imagined. The story keeps us on edge as we explore the social anger expressed through the character. The world-building is bleak and gritty as it gives us a much more grounded depiction of a corrupt Gotham ruled by the rich elite, like the Wayne family.

Joaquin's performance holds up surprisingly well when compared to the portrayals of Jack Nicholson, Heath Ledger, and even Mark Hamill in the role. Each on-screen performance of the Joker has had its charm, and Joaquin brings a much more mild-mannered version of the character, in a performance that can only be described as deceptively mad.

Joker is a film that attains rare success beyond its existing story, offering a standalone origin without the need for its rival Batman to anchor it. That being said, it also occupies a unique position by potentially foreshadowing a future Batman film, setting the stage for the caped crusader. 

Rating: ★★★★☆ 4 out of 5