“Joker” is a 2019 American psychological thriller directed by Todd Phillips. The film is a standalone origin story for the DC Comics character, the Joker, and follows the story of Arthur Fleck, a failed stand-up comedian who turns to a life of crime and chaos after being repeatedly mistreated and ignored by society. Set in Gotham City in the 1980s, the film explores themes of mental illness, class struggle, and the consequences of societal neglect.
Review:
“Joker” is a stunning and intense film that explores the depths of the human psyche. Joaquin Phoenix delivers a breathtaking performance as Arthur Fleck, portraying the character's descent into madness with a haunting realism. The film is beautifully shot, with a dark and gritty atmosphere that perfectly captures the bleakness of Gotham City. While the film has received criticism for its violent content, it serves as a powerful commentary on the societal issues that drive individuals to commit acts of violence. Overall, “Joker” is a thought-provoking and unforgettable film.
Awards:
“Joker” has received widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards, including:
- Academy Awards – Best Actor (Joaquin Phoenix), Best Original Score (Hildur Guðnadóttir), Best Makeup and Hairstyling
- Golden Globe Awards – Best Actor in a Drama (Joaquin Phoenix), Best Original Score
- BAFTA Awards – Best Actor in a Leading Role (Joaquin Phoenix), Best Original Score, Best Casting, Best Sound
- Critics' Choice Awards – Best Actor (Joaquin Phoenix), Best Original Score
- Screen Actors Guild Awards – Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role (Joaquin Phoenix)
| Directed by | Todd Phillips |
|---|---|
| Produced by | Todd Phillips Bradley Cooper Emma Tillinger Koskoff |
| Written by | Todd Phillips Scott Silver |
| Based on | Characters by DC Comics |
| Starring | Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz, Frances Conroy, |
| Music by | Hildur Guðnadóttir |
| Cinematography | Lawrence Sher |
| Edited by | Jeff Groth |
| Production companies |
Warner Bros. Pictures DC Films Joint Effort Bron Creative Village Roadshow Pictures |
| Distributed by | Warner Bros. Pictures |
| Release date | August 31, 2019 (Venice) October 4, 2019 (United States) |
| Running time | 122 minutes |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Budget | $55–70 million |
| Box office | $1.074 billion |