A flawless and unique departure from comic book movies.

Rating: 10/10 (7 October 2019)

Joker; the movie I never knew I needed. A cinematic breakthrough in the comic book movie genre, that despite being overly referred to as a masterpiece, is for sure a masterpiece. Todd Phillips directs Joker, the character study centred around Arthur Fleck, played by Joaquin Phoenix. A mentally ill man shunned by society, who finds himself on a rather dark path of discovery. This is undeniably the breath of fresh air the genre has needed since James Mangold's Logan.
Without doubt the films greatest success, is it's ability to have you empathise and sympathise with an antagonist. Todd Phillips took one of the greatest 'villains' in comic history, and made him a relatable character. Utilising the character study format of story telling was key to accomplishing this success, as seeing the events of Arthur Fleck's life through his own eyes feels as engaging as ever. Remaining on the 'dark and gritty' side of comic book movies, the plot consists of many appropriate comments on todays society which add to not only the character of the joker but help shed light on a subject very present in our time. Make no mistake, this is a vastly disturbing film at times, the synergy between Hildur Guðnadóttin's gripping score and the imagery on screen is like a schizophrenic nightmare in the best way possible. I don't think I've ever endured such range of emotions throughout a film before. Joaquin Phoenix masterfully embodies the role of both Arthur Fleck and Joker, which is putting it lightly.
Visuals and production design are a phenomenal display. Gotham City not only feels like an authentic city, but becomes a character in itself. The film is enriched with colour grading and light/shadows that accommodate what tone is being conveyed. This is a film that uses visual storytelling where it can and to it's best advantage, a unique aspect of Joker. The movie in general certainly feels inspired by some of Martin Scorsese's flicks, which only makes sense due to former arrangements for him to produce, if you're a fan of Scorsese you're sure to get a kick out of this film. As I mentioned beforehand this film is a breath of fresh air for the genre. This isn't your typical superhero punch em' up loaded with insane visual effects, action and world-devastating events. This is a charmingly stylised, grounded depiction of a comic book character who could theoretically exist. Again, Pheonix puts everything into this character and embodies his role. Todd Phillips' passion project met with Joaquin Phoenix's immaculate performance creates something really special that seems to have earned itself the title of an instant classic.
Whether you're hunting a flawless movie or you're just tired of the loud theme parks comic book movies have become today and are looking for something truly unique, this one exceeds all expectations.