Directed by Todd Phillips and starring Joaquin Phoenix in the titular role, “Joker” is a 2019 psychological thriller that provides an origin story for one of the most iconic villains in comic book history. The film is set in 1981 Gotham City and serves as a standalone narrative, separate from the broader DC Extended Universe. It delves into themes of mental illness, societal neglect, and the transformation of Arthur Fleck, a failed comedian, into the criminal mastermind known as the Joker.
Arthur Fleck: A Man on the Edge
Arthur Fleck is a struggling comedian who works as a clown-for-hire. He lives with his ailing mother, Penny, in a run-down apartment. Arthur suffers from a neurological condition that causes him to laugh uncontrollably at inappropriate times. He relies on social services for medication and therapy, but deep budget cuts in the city’s social programs leave him without this essential support.
A Society in Decay
Gotham City is depicted as a place suffering from extreme income inequality, high crime rates, and a general sense of hopelessness. Billionaire Thomas Wayne is running for mayor, promising to clean up the city but showing little empathy for those less fortunate. Arthur idolizes a talk-show host, Murray Franklin, fantasizing about making a successful appearance on his show.
The Downward Spiral
Arthur’s life begins to unravel after he is attacked by a group of teenagers and later by three Wayne Enterprises employees on the subway. During the second attack, Arthur’s pent-up rage boils over, and he shoots the men, killing them. This act of violence triggers protests against the rich and powerful of Gotham, with protesters donning clown masks similar to the one Arthur wore during the shooting.
Uncovering Family Secrets
Arthur’s mother always told him that Thomas Wayne is his father. When Arthur confronts Wayne, he not only denies paternity but also insults Arthur and punches him. Arthur later finds out through a letter from Penny to Thomas that he might indeed be Wayne’s son. However, upon stealing his mother’s medical records, he discovers that he was adopted and that Penny allowed him to be abused as a child, leading to his mental issues. This revelation pushes Arthur further towards the edge.
The Transformation into Joker
After being invited to appear on Murray Franklin’s show due to a clip of his failed stand-up routine going viral, Arthur decides that it’s time for the world to see him for who he truly is. He dyes his hair green and applies clown makeup, fully embracing his Joker persona. Before heading to the studio, he suffocates his mother in the hospital, where she was admitted following a stroke.
The Climactic Appearance
On Franklin’s show, Arthur admits to the subway murders and delivers a monologue criticizing society’s apathy towards people like him. He argues that society gets what it deserves, blaming systemic issues for his transformation. The segment ends with Arthur shooting Franklin in the head on live television, sparking city-wide riots.
The Birth of a Villain
Arthur is arrested but is freed when a mob of clown-masked rioters crashes into the police car transporting him. He stands atop the car, basking in the chaos he has created, fully transformed into the Joker. The film closes with him in Arkham State Hospital, laughing to himself about a joke that he believes his therapist wouldn’t understand.
Impact and Reception
“Joker” was both critically acclaimed and commercially successful, grossing over a billion dollars worldwide. Joaquin Phoenix’s performance was particularly praised, earning him several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Actor. The film itself sparked much debate for its dark themes and portrayal of mental illness.