Better than I expected, but not the movie I was hoping for

Rating: 8/10 (6 October 2019)

When I saw the very first trailer for the Joker movie, I was disappointed. At first I thought it was going to be modeled after The Killing Joke, but that wasn't the case. I haven't been a great fan of Joaquin Phoenix before this movie, but I really feel he gave an Oscar worthy performance. He was the best part of the movie for me.
I wasn't really a fan of the trailer for the movie, but going in with low expectations I was pleasantly surprised that the movie was better than expected. I really loved the tie-ins to Gotham City and Batman, but I am not sure if they were meant to add to the story or just to provide some storyline connected to Batman.
Speaking of Batman, how could this Joker be the same one in the Batman storyline? At this rate, the Joker would be a feeble old man by the time Batman came into the picture. There also seemed to be a few messages being made here. Rich people are bad people. Poor people are hated by society. And society in general sucks.
I felt that this movie could have been a character study for any person with a traumatic childhood experience, then having several more bad experiences throughout life that push one over the edge of sanity. I kept asking myself, Is this a movie about the Joker, or any one who has been shunned by society while burdened with family issues.
When the movie was over, I sat in my seat trying to figure out if I liked the movie or didn't like it. To be honest, I am still undecided.
I'm not sure why, but there were people with young children to see this movie. I must warn that it does earn its R rating so please consider whether you want to take your kids to see this film. It is very dark and violent at times.
Overall, I would encourage people to see the movie. Joaquin's performance is so masterful, that it needs to be see onscreen.
I am scoring an 8 for this film because the music was very dramatic and helped create the atmosphere when needed. Also for Joaquin's performance. I gave points for being artful and for entertainment value. But, was it a movie that I would say is "Outstanding"? Sadly no.