As a film enthusiast with over two decades of experience under my belt, I must say that the Joker character has always been one of the most intriguing and complex figures in cinema history. The portrayals of this iconic villain by Heath Ledger and Joaquin Phoenix have left an indelible mark on the world of film.
The infamous character known as The Joker, who first appeared in comics during the 1930s, is often considered the most well-known villain in literature. This murderous clown, a psychopath with a twisted sense of humor, is notorious for joking after committing heinous acts. Known as the Clown Prince of Crime, The Joker has been Batman’s arch-nemesis since their debut. Their rivalry, much like those between Sherlock Holmes and Moriarty, Harry Potter and Lord Voldemort, or Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader, has become a legendary fixture in fiction. Over the years, there have been several notable portrayals of The Joker on screen, with two performances even earning Oscar awards.
We’re talking about Heath Ledger’s Joker in Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight, and Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker in Todd Phillips’ Joker and its recent sequel, Joker: Folie à Deux. These two versions of the Clown Prince of Crime share many similarities, but they also share some stark differences. They may both be the Joker, but they’re two very different characters. Let’s now pit these two psychopathic clowns against each other and identify their biggest differences.
10
Different Suits and Make-Up
In the comics, the Joker is given a unique appearance due to a chemical accident that turns his skin pale white, hair bright green, and lips scarlet. This was the case for Jack Nicholson’s portrayal of the Joker in the 1989 Batman film and Jared Leto’s version in Suicide Squad. However, Heath Ledger and Joaquin Phoenix’s versions of the Joker do not have this disfigurement. Instead, they use makeup to depict their versions of the Clown Prince of Crime, although there are slight differences between them.
In the movie, Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of the Joker exhibits a more carnival-esque look, featuring a red nose, red eyebrows, and blue facial paint around his eyes – elements that are not typically found in the original comic book character. A significant part of the film also shows him without makeup.
In a more casual and clear language: The Joker portrayed by Heath Ledger in “The Dark Knight” has a darker, less polished appearance. His makeup seems to have been quickly slapped on, with black paint around his eyes. We rarely see him without makeup, only for about 30 seconds throughout the movie. Since Ledger’s Joker wears makeup most of the time, it suggests that the character’s identity is closely tied to his appearance as the Clown Prince of Crime. This version follows a more traditional depiction of the Joker, not just in terms of makeup but also in other aspects. Unlike Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker who wears a red suit and doesn’t don the iconic purple one in any of his movies.
9
The Voice
Beyond their physical features, these two characters have distinct vocal characteristics. Heath Ledger abandoned his native Australian accent and transformed his voice for his performance in The Dark Knight. The Joker’s voice, mirroring his unpredictable personality, varied from deep, malicious growls to sharp, piercing screeches. There was an undeniable charm that accompanied this Joker; you found yourself captivated whenever he spoke through his red lips.
In my perspective, Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of the Joker in his movie felt strikingly similar to Joaquin himself, with only a few exceptions like when he mimicked a Southern lawyer in court. On the other hand, Heath Ledger’s performance as the Joker in “The Dark Knight” was more transformative. To be honest, it’s hard to recognize Heath Ledger behind that chilling character and his distinctive voice and mannerisms.
8
Ledger’s Joker Is a Criminal Mastermind
In my take, I’d say: “Contrary to what the world might think, I, Heath Ledger’s Joker, don’t believe in having a set plan. Instead, I prefer to go with the flow and see where it takes me. As I teased deformed Harvey Dent (Aaron Eckhart), while dressed in a nurse’s outfit, ‘Do I really look like a man who follows a plan?’ However, in ‘The Dark Knight,’ it’s evident that every move the Joker makes, including his attacks and schemes, are carefully planned.
In a manner reminiscent of his comic book version, Heath Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker is that of a cunning criminal mastermind. From the initial bank heist in the film, he orchestrates a series of intricate plots. Throughout the movie, Ledger’s Joker manages to eliminate numerous city officials, dismantle an entire criminal organization, corrupt Gotham City’s district attorney with good intentions, and all the while avoiding Batman. The Joker even stages his own capture and arrest, culminating in that memorable and iconic escape sequence.
In comparison to his portrayal, Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker appears less scheming and more impulsively violent. His crimes in 2019’s “Joker” are primarily murders, with Robert De Niro’s character’s death at the film’s end being an exception. However, in “Joker: Folie à Deux,” Phoenix’s Clown Prince of Crime doesn’t engage in any criminal activities, not even murder. Instead, a car bomb detonates outside a courthouse near the film’s end, providing an opportunity for the Joker to escape. If this were Heath Ledger’s Joker, he likely would have been the one to plant that bomb.
7
Joaquin’s Joker Gets an Origin Story
It’s intriguing that the Joker, among Batman’s adversaries, lacks a definitive backstory. Although various comics have provided origin tales for the Joker, such as Alan Moore’s graphic novel, Batman: The Killing Joke, he himself admits in the same work that his past is unclear, often recalling it differently. He prefers to have a flexible past, stating, “If I’m going to have a past, I prefer it to be multiple choice!” All we can confirm is that he typically tumbles into a vat of chemicals, often due to Batman, and subsequently transforms into the psychotic clown we know today.
As a cinephile, I must say that at the heart of “The Dark Knight,” the enigmatic character known as The Joker has an origin that remains tantalizingly unclear. From the very first scene, he is already there, the Joker – a man whose past and creation are shrouded in mystery. It’s almost as if he appeared out of nowhere, ready to sow discord and bring chaos wherever he goes.
In Todd Phillips’ movie “Joker”, the character we know as a villain is presented in a fresh light. Instead of a familiar backstory, this film delves into the origins of the Joker, showing how he evolved from a troubled, mentally ill man named Arthur Fleck, struggling with poverty and yearning for recognition. His alter ego, the Joker, serves as an escape route for him in these circumstances.
6
Ledger’s Joker Wants to Watch the World Burn
In “The Dark Knight,” Batman, played by Christian Bale, is perplexed by the intentions of the Joker. However, his loyal butler Alfred (Michael Caine) explains to him that some individuals simply enjoy watching the world suffer. Indeed, this interpretation aligns with Heath Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker, who lacks noble ambitions and a defined purpose other than tormenting Batman. This Joker is an anarchist, a destructive force unlike any other that Batman has encountered, self-declared as a catalyst for chaos. Unlike other characters in the story, this Joker doesn’t merely create chaos; he flourishes within it. It’s highly unlikely to witness this Joker dancing, unless it’s on the remnants of the world.
Joaquin’s portrayal of the Joker is distinctly unique. Instead of aiming to destroy the world, Arthur Fleck seeks self-understanding and acceptance throughout two films. The Joker persona becomes his means of retaliation against a world that mistreated him and discarded him unceremoniously. While he does stir up some turmoil during this journey, it’s not his primary objective. He wasn’t driven by the desire to overthrow Gotham City or provoke riots and deranged followers; rather, he was simply seeking his own place within it.
Arthur perceives himself more as a casualty than the instigator of the turmoil, similar to Ledger’s character, the Joker. The courtroom car bomb in “Joker: Folie à Deux” is a sign of this. It wasn’t Arthur Fleck who placed that bomb; rather, it was the tumult caused by his Joker persona.
5
Joaquin’s Joker Gets a Harley
Originating in the highly praised “Batman: The Animated Series,” Harley Quinn has grown into one of DC Comics’ most significant and beloved characters. Known for her trickster nature and donning a black-and-red checkered outfit, she initially emerged as the Joker’s psychotic girlfriend and right-hand sidekick. With her eccentric personality and captivating allure, Harley has made an impact across various platforms, including comic books, animated productions, and live-action films.
In various DC films such as the 2016 movie “Suicide Squad,” Harley Quinn is notably portrayed by Margot Robbie. Here, she shares the screen with Jared Leto’s Joker. Most recently, Harley made another appearance in the film “Joker: Folie à Deux.” In this production, Joaquin Phoenix’s Clown Prince of Crime interacts with Harley Quinn, who is played by Lady Gaga in this instance.
In an intriguing twist, the dynamics between characters in Joker: Folie à Deux appear to contrast previous portrayals. Lady Gaga’s Harley emerges as the more controlling and toxic figure, using her influence to guide Joaquin’s fragile character towards her desires. Reminiscent of the Joker’s treatment of Harley, she discards him callously at the film’s end, a role reversal that mirrors their relationship history.
In every film appearance, Joaquin’s Joker has yearned for love and cherished the idea since his debut – seeking someone who values him and recognizes his presence. The upcoming movie, Joker: Folie à Deux, emphasizes how crucial Harley’s relationship is to him, serving as his driving force and purpose. In contrast, Heath Ledger’s Joker operates independently. Previous portrayals like Nicholson’s had connections with characters such as Vicki Vale and Alicia Hunt; however, Ledger’s Joker has only Batman to interact with.
4
Ledger’s Joker Is Defined by Batman
Previously stated, Batman and the Joker have a long-standing rivalry which is partly due to their interconnected dynamic, often compared to yin and yang or two sides of the same coin. Some people even suggest they symbolize different forms of madness. The Joker’s identity is deeply intertwined with his opposition against Batman, as evident in “The Dark Knight”.
In the memorable interrogation scene, The Joker, portrayed by Heath Ledger, tells Bruce Wayne’s Batman, “I don’t wish to kill you. What would be left for me without you? You…you fill a void in me.” This sentiment is not mere jest; it genuinely reflects his feelings. Throughout the film, The Joker’s madness and Batman’s wrath harmoniously contrast, symbolizing their yin and yang bond. The movie portrays this dynamic as the clash of an unstoppable force against an immovable object. In their final encounter, The Joker joyfully remarks to Batman, “I believe our destinies are intertwined in this dance.
As a devoted movie enthusiast, I’d like to clarify that Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of the Joker doesn’t hinge on Batman. In this DC universe, these two formidable foes have never crossed paths and won’t do so. The Joker, as played by Joaquin Phoenix, operates independently from Batman and in fact, precedes him by nearly a decade. At the time of the first movie, Bruce Wayne is just a child, yet to embark on his journey that will eventually transform him into the Dark Knight we all know.
3
Joaquin’s Joker Inadvertently Creates Batman
It’s common knowledge how Bruce Wayne transformed into Batman. As a young boy, he tragically witnessed his parents being murdered. Since that fateful day, Batman has been patrolling the dark streets of Gotham City, aiming to stop the violence that took his parents’ lives. We’ve seen this tale retold numerous times. The 2019 film Joker, however, offers a new perspective on Bruce Wayne’s story by linking the people who killed his parents with the Joker character.
At the climax of the movie, Joaquin’s portrayal of the Joker spawned a crowd of deranged admirers. Towards the end, one of these followers pulls out a firearm and cold-bloodedly assassinates Thomas and Martha Wayne in full view of a young Bruce. The killer’s face is concealed behind a clown mask, hinting that the Joker unintentionally set the stage for Batman’s emergence, thereby enriching their legendary rivalry with an additional dimension.
In a departure from the typical comic narrative, it’s shown here that Batman may unwittingly be the one to spawn the Joker. This is consistent with Christopher Nolan’s films, as evidenced in “Batman Begins.” Towards the end of the movie, Commissioner Gordon (played by Gary Oldman) expresses concern over the issue of escalation.
“We start carrying semi-automatics, they buy automatics. We start wearing Kevlar, they buy armor piercing rounds. And, you’re wearing a mask. Jumping off rooftops. Now, take this guy. Armed robbery, double homicide, has a taste for the theatrical, like you. Leaves a calling card.”
It’s clear from this scene that Gordon is discussing the Joker without needing to show his calling card, indicating a strong connection between him and the Joker. This suggests that Batman’s emergence may have sparked the creation of not only the Joker but also other villains in costume, a concept frequently delved into in the comics, which is quite intriguing.
2
Ledger’s Joker Is Still Alive in His Batman Universe
In the final moments of The Dark Knight, Heath Ledger’s Joker is depicted hanging upside down, cackling madly at his masterplan. Regrettably, that’s the last time we witness this character on screen. It’s suggested that the Joker is apprehended by the Gotham City Police Department and continues to live within Christopher Nolan’s Batman universe, just as he foreshadowed earlier: “I believe our paths are destined to cross again and again.
The initial idea for Nolan was that the third Batman movie would feature Ledger’s Joker as a secondary villain. However, due to Ledger’s unfortunate and premature demise, Nolan altered his course, resulting in The Dark Knight Rises. Unlike Ledger’s Joker, Joaquin Phoenix’s character gets the chance to appear in a second film, Joker: Folie à Deux. However, this sequel concludes with Arthur Fleck meeting his end by being stabbed and drowning in a pool of blood, which sets these two Jokers apart significantly.
1
Joaquin’s Joker Apparently Isn’t the “Real” Joker
T Folie à Deux”, but for the majority of the film, he remains as Arthur, without his Joker persona appearing until Harley Quinn brings it out of him around halfway through the movie.
Ultimately, we witness Arthur donning the clown paint and performing a show – but just a few minutes into it, he abandons the Joker character. Arthur asserts that the Joker is fictitious and accepts full accountability for his actions, decisively abandoning the identity of the Clown Prince of Crime on both mental and emotional levels.
However, there’s more to it. In the final scene, an unrecognized inmate unexpectedly approaches Arthur and shares a joke about a clown and a psychopath. As he reaches the punchline, this inmate unexpectedly pulls out a knife and viciously stabs Arthur in the abdomen. Mortally wounded, Arthur succumbs to his injuries, while his attacker erupts into maniacal laughter in the backdrop.
The real kicker, though, is when this character seems to cut a smile into his face, a reference to Heath Ledger’s Joker. This twist ending has proven controversial and divisive among fans. Arthur’s death implies that the unknown inmate is the real Joker, the future archenemy of Batman, and the future lover of Gaga’s Harley Quinn. Is he actually supposed to be Heath Ledger’s Joker? That point is unclear. What is clear, though, is that Arthur Fleck was nothing more than a precursor to the Joker, the inspiration for Batman’s most famous villain. This movie series is literally called Joker — and yet, this ending implies that we haven’t really been watching the Joker at all.
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2024-12-22 04:04