Fantastic Movie, but also Fantastically Overrated

Rating: 8/10 (6 December 2019)

Anybody who claims this movie is a masterpiece is 'fake deep'. The movie virtually carries the same underlying theme as Taxi Driver, but does so on the coat-tails of a more culturally prevalent character.
The plot itself may be slightly unoriginal; however, Phoenix's acting combined with the absolutely ominous sound editing make this movie haunting a memorable. I was skeptical prior to watching this movie, because I was so overwhelmingly impressed with Ledger's rendition; yet, Phoenix portrayed the character exactly how it needed to be portrayed given the story's circumstances. Ledger was responsible with creating a maniacally evil villain that evoked fear within the audience, while Phoenix was responsible for embodying an individual's descent into madness. What makes this performance so prolific is that Phoenix evokes empathy within the audience, when they should be nervous and absolutely mortified by his character's behaviors. Phoenix's portrayal of Arthur Fleck almost leaves the audience rooting for him in the end; thus, causing the audience to question its own morality, and to reflect upon just how chaotic and ruthless our society has become.
The story is strong, the sound editing is outstanding, the cinematography is complimentary; however, this film would not be nearly as memorable without perfect interpretation of this character by Phoenix.