Joker

Synopsis: Forever alone in a crowd, failed comedian Arthur Fleck seeks connection as he walks the streets of Gotham City. Arthur wears two masks -- the one he paints for his day job as a clown, and the guise he projects in a futile attempt to feel like he's part of the world around him. Isolated, bullied and disregarded by society, Fleck begins a slow descent into madness as he transforms into the criminal mastermind known as the Joker.

Movie Review:

"Joker" is a DC comic adaption of the most infamous villain ever created. Director Todd Phillips has crafted a dark and daring film that pushes the boundaries for comic book movies in general. "Joker" tells the story of Arthur Fleck, a failed comedian who is disregarded by society which shapes his actions and makes him take on the name 'the Joker'. Joaquin Phoenix plays Arthur Fleck/Joker and I believe it is his best performance on the big screen in years (I definitely predict an Oscar nomination for him). Phoenix is intense as this character and shines in this powerful role. I don't think any other actor could have pulled it off. He is disturbing, scary and psychotic — all the qualities that make a great villain. I really applaud the direction and the cinematography. They found a way to make this movie feel like a Martin Scorsese movie rather than a comic book film. The score by Hidur Guonadottir was haunting and related to the main character perfectly. It is probably one of my favorite scores I have heard this year at the movies. The supporting cast led by Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz, and Frances Conroy are really entertaining but they were not in the film that much which didn't bother me because this is really a Joaquin Phoenix movie. Finally, I loved how the movie tied into the Batman mythology of Bruce Wayne's parents. It was creative and passionate. If you see this movie, be prepared for many disturbing, violent and crazy scenes that at times made it uncomfortable to watch. So "Joker" is a film not for everyone but it is a brilliant, character study of one of the most famous villains ever created and Todd Phillips has crafted an original masterpiece that changes the comic book movies forever. I am giving "Joker" a 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Director: Todd Philips

Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Shea Whigham, Bill Camp, Glenn Fleshler, Leigh Gill, and Marc Maron

Runtime: 121 minutes