"Isn't It Rich?!"...

Rating: 10/10 (11 February 2020)

JOKER is astounding and confrontational. It covers issues like mental illness, class warfare, guns, societal breakdown, etc., while presenting a "villain" in Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) who is as sympathetic as he is terrifying. Filled w/ uncomfortable, even shocking moments, as well as unsettling comedic elements, some scenes will make many viewers squirm! Arthur is the overlooked, dismissed "nobody", forced to believe he doesn't even exist. He's a man in desperate need of help. Unfortunately, Gotham city isn't the place to find it. As his mind begins to shatter, Arthur has no idea what's coming his way. He simply finds his strength in a sudden act of violence, and somehow taps into the void within those around him, ultimately becoming a sort of messiah. The mesmerizing Mr. Phoenix uses his body as much as his dialogue to bring both Arthur and his alter ego to life. This is a movie to be watched and taken seriously, in spite of its comic book origins. It's as much a serious statement as it is entertainment. Multiple viewings recommended...