Phoenix now owns the role.

Rating: 9/10 (8 March 2020)

Joker
This movie is all about the performance.
That central performance by Joaquin Phoenix
A movie that will be divisive because Phoenix's turn here makes you care and sympathise with a flawed and deranged human being who is committing heinous crimes.
Strangely 'Joker' is a beautiful film to watch.
It is sublimely shot, dripping with character.
Every scene drawing you in.
Whilst you may be repulsed by the path that Arthur Flecks life goes down it can't be helped but to watch in awe.
Todd Phillips has crafted a truly captivating film.
One that utilises a fantastic score by Hildur Guðnadóttir and some sublime cinematography by Lawrence Sher.
Phillips steers the film and the performers masterfully through the captivating 2hr 2min runtime.
The plot never runs into any nulls, every moment rooting the audience to their seats.
Support from Robert De Niro is the best he's been for years but make no mistake this is Phoenix's show.
A performance that doesn't need to be compared with Heath Ledgers turn as the Clown Prince of crime.
This is no 'Batman' movie. This is something entirely different. It's own being.
Of course there are ties to the 'Batman' universe but 'Joker' feels much more grounded.
Christopher Nolan's 'Dark Knight' Trilogy also did this but still remained on the side of fantasy due to the superhero subject matter.
'Joker' feels like a product of today's real life.
A man who slowly decends Into madness. His mental health crumbling before our eyes as life beats him down.
I was truly impressed by this film. It won't be for everyone.
Many of my friends do not share my admiration.
In terms of audio and visual quality. 'Joker looks sublime in 4K with HDR. Colours are subtle.
Arthur's colourful attire pops but mainly the film has a yellowish tone that evokes a sense of decay.
Sound is also wonderful.
Guðnadóttir's score bellows its way through every speaker. Whilst not an action packed movie the subway scene does have some real aural impact.
This is a great movie both in terms of storytelling and film making.
I hope Joaquin Phoenix reprises his role very soon.
He now owns it.