The Most Accurate Depiction Of Mental Illness I've Seen

Rating: 10/10 (16 October 2019)

Let me preface this review by saying that I suffer from mental ill health. I've had PTSD for the last 20 years. During that time I've been on many medications, been to therapists, been to peer-to-peer support groups, etc. I've seen real human suffering and endured it myself.
I was cautious going in to this movie because I thought it might hit too close to home and trigger something in myself. I felt deeply effected by this move at an emotional level. The line "The worst thing about having a mental illness, is people expect you to behave as if you dont." couldn't be anymore true. There are people walking among you all day and you wouldn't even know it because they've learned to hide it so well.
In terms of the movie itself, I was stunned by its simplicity. No elaborate fight scenes, no CGI, no over the top super powers, etc. There's no need for it. This is a story about a man with a mental health issue. It starts with Arthur in a very difficult situation and things just keep getting worse, and worse. You can sympathise with him and therefore this movie can be painful to watch. Some people in the cinema I was at were laughing at points and I couldn't understand why. There's nothing funny about this movie. I do think a lot of people simply wont 'get it' and I hate saying that.
I think the acting and story is of the very highest level. In a world of constant reboots and old ideas Joker brings something new to the table. I don't think I've ever seen a movie like this. As much as I appreciate what a stunning movie this is I wouldn't see it again as I found it too painful to watch. I think people should know going in to this that you'll be watching a tale of human suffering. This could very well happen in real life it's so grounded. While the tale itself is one of tragedy its execution is simply masterful.
I'll be giving it a 10/10 and it deserves its place among the top of the IMDb 250.