"Joker": Nathan's Movie Review

There's not many films out there, especially in the modern age, that leave me without words by the time the credits begin rolling. I can't even remember the last time a film has had this much of an impact on me. Joker speaks volumes about mental illness, something a lot of films are scared to do anymore, and speaks on the deterioration of the already broken mind as society has its way with it.

Joker tells the story of Arthur Fleck, a professional clown trying to make it as a stand-up comedian. His mother is mentally and physically incapable of taking care of herself so Arthur lives with her in order to keep an eye on her. The film takes us down the rabbit hole as Arthur's mental illness becomes unchecked and things from his past start coming to light. It all leads to the inevitable mind-break that turns him into the notorious Clown Prince of Crime, the Joker.

Top marks for Joaquin Phoenix's haunting performance and brilliant depiction of severe psychosis. If there was doubt of how incredible of an actor he really is, then there should be none left after this. The man pulled off a feat that literally no one else could. Sure, there are different depictions of the Joker, such as Heath Ledger's brilliant turn in The Dark Knight and Jack Nicholson's wild take in Batman, but none have entered the mind of the man behind the clown paint like Joaquin did and I honestly don't think anyone else could do what he did in this film.

Writer and Director Todd Phillips did a complete 180 in his career. He has written and directed a ton of silly comedies and now suddenly writes and directs Joker. The man has a brilliance that he's waited his entire career to show and there's no better film to showcase it in than this. Why he wasted all this time when he's so much smarter than he's been letting on, I have no idea. I realize these types of films take a toll on your mind so rest up, Mr. Phillips, you deserve it.

In conclusion, if you like character studies or are just a fan of DC Comics, go see this film. I can't tell you enough how impressed and blown away I was. I give Joker a 4 out of 4.