By: John Hall, Editor in Chief
Never in the history of film, has the metamorphosis of a human been captured with such color and depth as Joker has. Joker starred Joaquin Phoenix (Signs) and was directed by Todd Philips (The Hangover Trilogy). The film follows the origin story of the titular DC Comic book villain Arthur Fleck (The Joker). The story follows Arthur as he struggles to find his place in the world while dealing with a disorder that causes him to laugh uncontrollably at the wrong times.
Arthur has the responsibility of taking care of his mother, Penny Fleck (Frances Conroy – Six Feet Under), who is both mentally and physically ill and entirely dependent on Arthur. The color palette used in the creation of the film creates both the opportunity for viewers to become claustrophobic, and also to be liberated. This is done by making some scenes more monochrome than others, and when necessary adding vibrant primary colors to emphasize each scene.
@jokermovie1- Critics have only been able to muster one word at a time to explain what was seen heard and felt from the movie
Additionally, the score provides a level of tension that places viewers at the edge of their seats, as scenes feel more personal and have increasing allure. Phoenix is phenomenal in this role as he stretches the boundaries of what it means to be invested in the part. Given his physique in the role of the Joker, it is clear that he lost an incredible amount of weight for the role.
In addition to the weight loss, it is reported that Phoenix studied several persons with the disorder Pseudobulbar (PBA) effect. The disorder causes inappropriate and uncontrollable laughter or crying in times of increased stress. The result of studying this disorder was portrayed beautifully on screen as we see Arthur carry out daily activities while battling this mental illness.
@jokermovie3- Joker represents a cinematic masterpiece amalgamating a wonderful score and a beautiful color palette.
Joker provides a myopic look into the life of the villain but allows for more empathy to be given to the character that we have loved to hate in previous years. Many critics assume that too much understanding will result in more empathetic responses to serial killers, with others going as far as to say that the film glorifies violence. However, this is far from the truth; the film looks at what happens when society doesn’t take the issues affecting the people within seriously. As one line in the movie suggests that this is what happens when you ignore certain people in society.
While the runtime of the film is a bit excessive with just over two hours, the art is succinctly expressed and it is well appreciated that the directors respected the audience enough to flesh out the character. With no current tie-ins to the DC Universe’s Batman character slated, Joker provides a refreshing look into the life of the well-known comic book character.
