Outstanding film showcasing Mental Illness

Rating: 8/10 (5 October 2019)

First and foremost, this is an outstanding film being it is a stand alone film. Also, the Soundtrack and Score really makes this film. Todd Phillips utilizes amazing songs that works well with the characters inner thoughts.
This film has a lot of twists and turns. I will say it is engaging from the beginning, but has some slow parts in it. This film is very dark and has dark humor as well. It does have some gore in it without the big use of CGI. I like how the film is based in the late-70/early-80's and shows how the Wayne's play into the film, without taking over. It also gives a different view of Thomas Wayne and the Wayne's in general.
Arthur Fleck was let down by the system and it really shows. Going day in and day out into his only job and how he deals with his demons and what he must feel daily with medication and then without medication. As a healthcare professional, this film should be shown to students when it comes to mental health/illnesses. This film showcases depression (manic), psychosis, hallucinations, and bi-polar and how society deals will these type of patients.
Joaquin Phoenix does a fantastic job playing the main role and gives an Oscar Winning Performance! Heath Ledger's performance was great, but Joaquin shows a different side of Joker and takes it up to whole new level!
Could this film be watched at home and still enjoy it...the answer is yes. Should it be viewed in theaters...the answer is yes! The cinematography is great but sometimes feels like a student documentary in some scenes (camera shakes) and slightly weird angles. And again, the story does slow down in parts.
I give this film an 8 for those reasons. So go out and see it for yourself and see how it stacks up to your standards!