Don't be fooled by the Joker name that's tethered to the beloved DC comics, for Todd Phillips' manifestation of the delusional psycho-villain shows little regard for any origin story that comes before it.
Joker is a study of the titular character's psychological state rather than a straight-up hero flick, following Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix, Walk the Line) as he lives downtown in squalor with his mother, working day after day as a clown-for-hire. As his dream of becoming a stand-up comic slips further away, audiences watch as Fleck completely unravels into a manic serial killer who thrives on the attention and confidence he gains through murder.
Phoenix is relentless as Arthur, once again committing to his role with a vivaciousness that takes emotional depth and physicality to a new level. His portrayal of the character is far removed from that of Heath Ledger's in The Dark Night (2008), pegging Fleck as a misunderstood man-child who feels entitled to attention, going to any lengths to receive it.
Phoenix's unnerving performance doesn't ask audiences to sympathise with Arthur, yet in a twisted way still manages to have people rooting for him by the time the end credits roll. Plus, his signature deranged cackle will stay with you long after you've left the cinema.
Not to go without mention is Frances Conroy (Six Feet Under) in the role of Arthur's mother, who presents Penny Fleck's fragility and mental illness in a way that's mindful yet utterly harrowing. Robert De Niro also shines in his small role as Arthur's hero, talk show host Murray Franklin.
Phillips' and Scott Silver's plot unravels very slowly and only picks up the pace as Arthur's downwards spiral climaxes in the third act. In rewriting the Joker's origin story, we gain a new look at the sickening narcissism that ultimately results in the character's demise, but what's for certain is that audiences will be forced to decide whether Joker is a story that needed telling.
There are also plenty of nods to Batman's origin story to appease fans of the wealthy hero, in instances where the film hones in on Arthur's disdain for Thomas Wayne.
Almost every element of Joker is incredible on its own; the cinematography compels you to never take your eyes off the screen, even when the gruesome parts dare you to, and the score is as commanding as Phoenix's performance. Yet when it all comes together, the film falls short of the hype surrounding it.
Joker flirts with key facets that are synonymous with Arthouse films, which might make the film a little left of field for the viewers that come from DC's established fanbase. While it's sure to lock down several Oscar nominations in the upcoming award season, Joker is definitely a film of acquired taste that boasts many uncomfortable moments. Still, it's worth a watch for those wanting a peek into the psychology behind one of DC's greatest villains.
★: 6/10