Best Joker So Far?

Rating: 8/10 (21 October 2019)

Yes. Joker is not a typical superhero or supervillain film for that matter. This dramatically dark film by Todd Phillips echoes with strong themes of loneliness and madness, themes they are vital to represent the DC universes biggest and most iconic villans. Joaquin Phoenix is what made this film a 8 star. Despite the script weaker scenes at times, Pheonix made the entire film feel so naturally and right. His work here shines as he shows the most change of a Joker yet. The dramatic, realistic, and mysterious alteration of Joker from being a working party clown, to the crime boss we know him as today. This depiction of this iconic character is definitely the strong point. The rest of the film can feel shallow and traditionally plotted or with predictable events, however, there are way more unpredictable points in this plot line then the predictable, especially in the final two acts. The non diegetic use of music is a key component of symbolism and mood that complements and tires the movie together. Often overlooked, the use of audio in this film is vital and important.
The film as a while is a week deserved 8/10 in my opinion because of the amazing character development, acting, soundtrack, intensity, and dramatic expression of a traditional blockbuster with infused darkness, sorrow, and emotion.