Joker

Joker (2019)★ 8.4/10

R · US · 122 min · August 31, 2019

  • Drama

Directed by: Todd Phillips

Written by: Todd Phillips, Scott Silver, Bob Kane, Bill Finger, Jerry Robinson

During the 1980s, Arthur Fleck works as a comedian in Gotham City and is driven insane by various conflicts that end up pushing him over the edge, transforming him into the demented psychopath known as the Joker.

Articles about this

See all (272) ›

Cast & crew

See all ›

Awards · 9 wins, 24 nominations

See all ›

Reviews

AallanpicksJuly 22, 2024
I'm so obsessed with this movie. The cinematography is brilliant, the characters are well-developed, and the violence is artistic and tense. When I watched it again, I found more hidden details that blew my mind—like how left and right hands symbolize things and what clothing colors mean for the characters. No doubt, this film is the standout when it comes to Joker movies, and the Joker himself has become a spiritual leader for fans of the archetype.
NNickShaw_July 22, 2024
Through the Joker character, the film shows the struggles of those on the margins and the immense gap between the rich and poor. The main guy, dealing with his sick mom and crappy jobs, gets bullied and mocked all the time. It's a sad atmosphere, but this film's pacing, music, and dialogue are all top-notch. And Joaquin Phoenix's performance is insane. He totally deserves all the praise.
CcontainsfurJuly 22, 2024
Now, don't get me wrong, this movie's technically excellent. But it just didn't hit me emotionally or really make me think deeply. It didn't have that critical edge to really dig into the social issues behind the Joker's story. It made him seem like a symbol of rebellion, but it didn't go far enough to show why things were so messed up in the first place.
MMerlin HumphryJuly 22, 2024
The Joker's character is just so fleshed out. His personality is unique, and his actions are wild, and they take you deep into his mind. You really feel his pain, his struggles, and his despair. It's a powerful portrayal that tugs at your heartstrings and makes you feel for him.
EEllard2July 21, 2024
The film's bleak and violent atmosphere conveys the Joker's tragic existence, from forcing laughter for survival to genuine laughter ignited by a dark revelation. The steps in Gotham are his haven, where he can dance away his troubles. Joaquin Phoenix's dedication, including undergoing significant weight loss and immersing himself into the character fully, makes this portrayal of the Joker legendary, rightfully earning him an Oscar.
CchowcolorJuly 21, 2024
This epic film tells the story of Arthur Fleck, a man who becomes the Joker after enduring beatings, ridicule, dismissal, a loveless family, and poverty. You can neither laugh nor cry, only feeling an inexpressible pain. Joaquin Phoenix's portrayal is top-notch, particularly his three dances that elevate the character and brings the audience's emotions to a peak.
WWPT MOGUJune 23, 2024
Joaquin Phoenix's performance is incredibly nuanced, and he excels in his body and facial expressions—there's no doubt about that. However, the overall story lacks depth and grandeur. The reflection and resistance on an ideological level come across as somewhat hollow and juvenile, and they feel a bit clichéd to me. The actors' performances can't fully make up for those shortcomings.
BBos-wis8June 23, 2024
Mind-blowing! Initially, I thought I could figure out why the protagonist was killing people, but in the end, I questioned if this was indeed what everyone wanted to see. It's a thought-provoking film, a really great one. I can't even find the words to describe the incredible performance by Joaquin Phoenix!
Ssepky2June 23, 2024
Finally finished watching this movie, and I have a few thoughts. Firstly, when everything in a person's life revolves around work, love, and family, when the things that he or she believes in crumble, it's understandable that sometimes it's too great a grievance for them to recover from. Secondly, the portrayal of the Joker character was truly outstanding and lively. It was incredible. Additionally, the cello music in the film evokes a lingering sense of sadness in my heart. Lastly, the final scene is incredibly ironic.
SScarlys rinconesJune 6, 2024
Contains spoilers
Es muy buena película me encantó demasiado
Mmr878lazMay 8, 2024
Society's madness breeds an antisocial frenzy; it only takes one bad day to turn anyone into the Joker. While the theme of "oppression begets evil" is not groundbreaking, Joaquin Phoenix's stellar method acting elevates the entire film to a godly level, making it a compelling and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
Rredjohn42March 1, 2024
I enjoyed the character portrayal of Joker brought on by Joaquin Phoenix, but the overall philosophical and social critique of the movie felt lackluster, at best. But as an agent of chaos, Joker remains the same for every interpretation.

Talk about this

In these picks