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- Joker Barely Resembled the DC Character
- Arthur Fleck or the Joker?
As a long-time fan of the DC universe, I must admit that the Joker portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix in Todd Phillips’ films was hardly the Joker I had grown to love and fear. While these movies were undeniably captivating with their gritty themes and dark narratives, they strayed far from the iconic character that comic book fans have cherished for decades.
Spoiler Alert: Spoilers for Joker: Folie à Deux to follow
Regarding the 2019 film “Joker” and its upcoming sequel “Joker: Folie à Deux,” director Todd Phillips has stated that Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of the title character differs significantly from the beloved comic book version. These films, classified as psychological thrillers, exist outside the DC universe. The directors’ labeling of Fleck as an “unwitting icon” aims to dissect and clarify the character for viewers. However, a question arises: if the intention was always to deviate so dramatically from the original character, was the Joker persona essential in the initial story?
Before diving into the complexities and intense themes portrayed in the movie, it’s essential to consider some background details. When Phillips and Silver embarked on the Joker films, neither had any previous experience with comic book adaptations, nor did they draw inspiration from traditional Joker comics. Instead, their motivation came from characters in films like “Taxi Driver” (1976) and “The King of Comedy” (1982). The reason behind their sudden interest in the superhero genre, specifically a DC movie, despite its resemblance to an Elseworlds title—DC’s equivalent to Marvel’s What If—remains a curiosity that may never be fully explained.
Joker Barely Resembled the DC Character
Despite some viewers feeling let down by Arthur Fleck’s conclusion in Joker 2, it appears to be a disappointing turn for a character who typically has the last laugh. Fans might find it hard to accept such an unfortunate ending for a character known for his triumphs, given their preconceived notions of the Joker. However, if the story had primarily focused on a troubled individual seeking retribution against society (through unconventional means) due to the unfair hand he was dealt, it may have been more favorably received. While Joker: Folie à Deux has dominated recent discussions, largely due to its shortcomings, it’s worth noting that the original movie takes significant creative liberties with the character, which makes it a crucial point of discussion in this context.
In simpler terms, Arthur Fleck transforms into the Joker not because of Batman but due to his deteriorating mental state and flawed societal structures. The intense conflict between him and the Joker could have been impactful without being tied to the DC universe. By focusing on Fleck’s struggles, they could have created a compelling story. However, instead of committing fully to either an authentic portrayal of the DC character or a struggle against society’s ills, Phillips and Silver blurred the lines, which diluted the overall narrative. Realistic dramas and satires were the primary influences on Joker, not comic books.
Arthur Fleck or the Joker?
Instead of employing a variant of Batman’s arch-rival as an ideal platform to highlight certain matters, it undeniably would have struggled to captivate audiences at the cinema without the advantage of being associated with an already highly esteemed character. However, by relying on the mythical narrative of The Joker (regardless of whether it was the genuine one), and facing a compulsion to utilize everything connected to him, including Bruce, Thomas, and Martha Wayne, ultimately proved to be its greatest vulnerability. Five years since its debut, the film continues to resonate with numerous individuals worldwide. Yet, it’s the sequences unrelated to Batman mythology, such as the dance routine on the South Bronx stairs or the finale at Murray Franklin’s talk show, that are most often recalled in conversations.
Many viewers continue to debate whether or not it’s appropriate that Arthur Fleck’s mother was linked to the Wayne family. While exploring the origin of Fleck’s trauma is a pivotal moment in the film, connecting this source to Thomas Wayne doesn’t seem crucial for understanding his character development. In essence, the billionaire could have been replaced with another figure, and Fleck would likely have reacted similarly upon reading the letter. The events leading to Fleck’s mother’s hospitalization were primarily driven by his confrontational behavior rather than any actions from the Wayne family. Even when Fleck cold-bloodedly shoots Franklin on live television, their connection is more a result of their own relationship (nurtured by Fleck’s mother watching Franklin each night).
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2024-10-18 02:31