A truthful look at one mans disturbing journey

Rating: 10/10 (14 October 2019)

I do not like super hero movies. Fortunately, this is not one. This is an incredibly disturbing character study of a man who happens to appear in comic books and other movies. This man is different than all of those other men. This man has nothing to do with those other men. It is not necessary to compare Arthur Fleck to the Joker of the Dark Knight. This is not about that joker. Arthur Fleck does not become that Joker.
This is the story of a mentally ill man who becomes an accidental icon. It is not a negative statement against mental illness. It is a look at one mentally ill man. It is not in any way saying that all mentally ill people become homocidal maniacs. Arthur Fleck just happens to become one.
Joaquin Phoenix gives an excellent interpretation of a very creative script. He is not trying to play "the Joker". He is trying to tell the truth of one mans life, and he succeeds. It is very disturbing to watch. It's more disturbing to sit with the thoughts you will have about yourself and about society while Arthur's story unfolds. I was also disturbed by the audience around me, and also by myself, laughing at dark moments in this mans life. This movie holds a mirror to society and it's hard to ignore the image you see reflected before your eyes. Go see it, it's worth it.