Read Mixed User Reviews for Joker

6

Willywonka180Apr 10, 2021

While Joker has some great points. It fails overall. The depiction of mental health is phenomenal first of all, I have no faults with that part of the film. But the story is messy and I found myself confused way too much. Although I see whyWhile Joker has some great points. It fails overall. The depiction of mental health is phenomenal first of all, I have no faults with that part of the film. But the story is messy and I found myself confused way too much. Although I see why people like it I just couldn't bring myself to say it is good. It isn't awful though, and I agree with some of the Oscars it got nominated for. The acting cannot go unseen. The editing is great. But the story is just so messy man! But if you like drama/thrillers I guess you could enjoy it.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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6

UncleWillardDec 18, 2019

So I finally saw the joker, and it didn't really surprise me. I expected it to appeal to a certain demographic, and it absolutely does. Phoenix's performance is stellar, which I expected given past performances in The Master and You WereSo I finally saw the joker, and it didn't really surprise me. I expected it to appeal to a certain demographic, and it absolutely does. Phoenix's performance is stellar, which I expected given past performances in The Master and You Were Never Really Here, but the plot was predictable. I get it, it's an origin story, but if you stack it up against Ledger's performance, I don't like this Joker at all. It's Taxi Driver if Travis Bickle were a victim of abuse and overt mental illness. It mirrors that movie in many ways, but one thing I'll say for Travis, we didn't have to set him up as this ultimate victim. Unlike Ledger's Joker, a sociopath who would have made this Joker's past a lie to feign victimhood, throwing off his adversaries, Phoenix's Joker is a victim. He's a man with no agency who finds it in a gun. It's the dream of every incel and nutjob who's ever felt they were given a raw deal and finally snapped into a beautiful swan song of violence and retribution. What's truly terrifying about the joker is the mob. Much like Antifa or the alt-right today, the mob is looking for any excuse to be a mob, and they look to this broken man who's only claim to fame is shooting unarmed people (granted, the first time is in defense). It's as if the entire population of disaffected white 20-somethings rallied around Dylan Roof or the guy who shot up the theater in Colorado. Again, Phoenix's performance is legendary and he dives into this character. He is Arthur Fleck, who is a more interesting character to me than the Joker. I don't know if that was the intent of the film, but it kind of undercuts the agency of superheroes/villains. You don't walk away from Joker hating the bad guy. Many walk away on his side. On the side of the mob, where it's far easier to protest and react violently in the face of adversity than it is to actually do the hard work of fixing problems or people. It's the lazy internet route to social change that leaves the same problems covered in a layer of poopy pants that no one realizes how special someone is. In fact, you could rename this Travis Bickle's Afterbirth.… Expand

7 of 11 users found this helpful74

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6

quake2thNov 24, 2019

A masterpiece, but let me explain my vote of 6.

This is an art-film, it has absolutely nothing to do with Batman or Joker. It's crystal clear that they had a script that was ready, but no one was willing to produce it because it's notA masterpiece, but let me explain my vote of 6.

This is an art-film, it has absolutely nothing to do with Batman or Joker. It's crystal clear that they had a script that was ready, but no one was willing to produce it because it's not "superhero movies", so they put the title "Joker" on it and added some Batman backstory.

Joaquin Phoenix is absolutely phenomenal, it's a masterclass in theatre-acting, obviously it's not cinema acting, but who cares.

Photography is insanely good, each scene is perfectly framed to the point of perfection.

I'm giving 6 because it's a shame that such a great movie had to put "Joker" in the title just to pitch the movie to some movie studio manager. It's a real shame and people should not accept it.

Masterpiece and oscar winning performance, shameful actions by production companies, it's unexcusable.… Expand

5 of 8 users found this helpful53

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5

natgreystarJan 14, 2020

This movie fell short of its potential, held back by a desperate attempt to push the story into the world of Gotham. It reeks of property cash in and that's what destroys the possibility for this being a great movie... that and the writersThis movie fell short of its potential, held back by a desperate attempt to push the story into the world of Gotham. It reeks of property cash in and that's what destroys the possibility for this being a great movie... that and the writers don't seem to understand character Arthur as they can't keep his profile straight. This COULD have been a masterpiece but they demolished everything they created with a search and replace of a dark grim reality with the words "Gotham", "Wayne", and "Joker". So it results with a rating of "yeah that was a movie" instead of "wow what a statement".

Everyone has their opinion of what this movie "is" but I'm going to tell you it's not about mental health, it's not about the character the Joker or the world of DC, it's not about an incel, and it's definitely not about social inequality. This is not your hero. It's not deep, it's not riveting, and it barely scratches the surface of what it's attempting.

This is failed character development in a movie that went from amazing to what the heck am I watching 50 minutes in. This movie was about making money. Plain and simple. The story is convoluted and confused. It NEEDS to be part of the DC universe and that is actually what ruins it. Reality is far more grim than Gotham and that alone pulls away any impact this movie had.

For an "origin story" the movie spends only 10ish minutes establishing who Arthur is, only to completely pivot away from that and demolish his character with decisions he would never make. It abandons the plot of his own character for a tie-in with Thomas Wayne repeatedly, which feels forced and unwanted. If you cut out all of the Gotham references and change the ending it would be a much better film, but it would have made less than half the money and not had a gaggle of fanboys drooling over it for two years.

Is this movie worth watching? Sort of. It's not "good" because of everything I mentioned and the script is just not great. It gets mental health completely wrong. It has bad character development. Literally nothing makes sense and no one in this movie has any importance or relevance outside of Arthur, who the movie establishes as two maybe even three different characters. It falls way short of establishing social equity and the importance of humanism.

Anyone giving this over an 8 is merely grasping at the straws meant to build this into a failed version of the DC character Joker. Anyone actually analyzing this movie and the characters for what they are would rate this below a 7. It's bad writing. It's bad character development. The plot is convoluted. It's a cash in. Most of all it's an art house film trying to be mainstream that doesn't know it is badly written. Todd Phillips knows how to do one thing right, make money off of stupid people. His history of movies definitely proves that.

In the end this movie will get undeserved awards for all of the wrong reasons and critically acclaimed for a sad reach that writers need to be liked and get clicks. In the end this was not a great movie and it will be forgotten and left behind. I think the fact it's getting a sequel actually proves this is a cash-in and not worth your time. This should have made its statement, should have been a real world not a fictional one, and it should have been left there.

Joker can be summed up in one word I went to over and over again
... desperate.… Expand

6 of 10 users found this helpful64

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6

sbgskylordNov 20, 2019

It doesn't respect to the source material so if you expect a comic accurate Joker origin story you'll be disappointed. There are some nods to different storylines of the Joker but not enough to make us feel like we are watching "The ClownIt doesn't respect to the source material so if you expect a comic accurate Joker origin story you'll be disappointed. There are some nods to different storylines of the Joker but not enough to make us feel like we are watching "The Clown Prince of Crime". Only thing really shines about this movie is Phoenix's acting performance. Basically it's a descending into madness story with borrowed popularity of The Joker.… Expand

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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5

LordoftheDanceOct 9, 2019

It is not an "enjoyable" movie, other than a few very dark jokes.... But it is very well done, Phoenix brings it; amazing acting. The movie really makes you think in many ways, and certainly keeps you on the edge of your seat.

4 of 7 users found this helpful43

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6

joehmooreOct 25, 2019

This is solely based on the last twenty minutes. Otherwise it was a total waste of time.

4 of 7 users found this helpful43

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5

bacchus_playsNov 11, 2019

Get's a 10 from me for the cinematography and the hilarious miniature golf joke (you'll know what I mean when ya see it) Phoenix does a terrific job but in the end it's another comic book movie. Bruce Wayne gets mentioned and my eyes roll.Get's a 10 from me for the cinematography and the hilarious miniature golf joke (you'll know what I mean when ya see it) Phoenix does a terrific job but in the end it's another comic book movie. Bruce Wayne gets mentioned and my eyes roll. Should have been about a guy who embraces his inner clown after losing his job. Would have been more interesting because as it stands it feels like it sticks to the source material for the Joker and as a result I lost interest. The early parts of the movie are definitely the best. It sort of hovers between Taxi Driver and Batman. Can't decide whether it wants to be a serious movie or a comic book movie.… Expand

4 of 7 users found this helpful43

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6

rideawaveDec 7, 2020

I think people like this movie more because they love the Joker character. As a movie, it's average at best. It's a little too broad and basic for my tastes but the final act picks it up a bit. I don't think it's a great movie but there areI think people like this movie more because they love the Joker character. As a movie, it's average at best. It's a little too broad and basic for my tastes but the final act picks it up a bit. I don't think it's a great movie but there are some good scenes.… Expand

4 of 7 users found this helpful43

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6

ColincNov 6, 2020

The true art of lighting, music & acting brings up the perfect theme; However ruined by the lack of a acceptable story.

4 of 7 users found this helpful43

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6

DMLYxCriticDec 29, 2019

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I do get why people love this movie. Simple: Joaquin Phoenix’ performance. True, he may have given one of the best, if not, the best performance of his career, I simply cannot stand the vapidity of this film. What’s the point? Sure, this is about mental illness, but what about the other aspects? The “kill the rich” arch the film seems to be bandying about? That is beside the point, I guess. If this film solely focused on the mental aspect, I would have given it a higher score. It got too muddled up that the second act was a boring drag of useless scenes showing the character’s descent into madness.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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6

guffreyDec 28, 2020

This movie’s plot is confused and doesn’t have the same oomph I think the director intended it to have. Joaquin absolutely carries this film with his portrayal of the Joker.

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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6

Lord-XaffaxOct 27, 2019

I gave this movie a 6 because it is not a bad movie. However, as a movie about the Joker it misses the mark completely. In the world of super villains the Joker is one of the darkest most unnerving charachters ever. The most commonI gave this movie a 6 because it is not a bad movie. However, as a movie about the Joker it misses the mark completely. In the world of super villains the Joker is one of the darkest most unnerving charachters ever. The most common misconception is that the Joker has anything to do with comedy or being funny...He is the personification of something far more evil. The darkest part of the human psyche. The tendensy to find gratification and pleasure in the pain, suffering and death of other human beings. Sadism... The makers of this movie totaly seem to miss this point. In fact this Joker barely could be called a super villain. He doesn't scheme, he isn't that bright, and he doesn't kill that many people. He certainly doesn't prey on the weak and vulnarable...Actualy... he has nothing in common with the creep we know as THE JOKER… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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6

RecepJan 25, 2020

Evet film güzel ancak aşırı derecede gereksiz filmin gidişatını yavaşlatan sahneler var bunun dışında hikayeyi güzel bir biçimde aktarıyor ama filmin sonu hariç hiç bir aksiyonlu jokeri yansıtan işler yok sırf jokeri karakterinin nasılEvet film güzel ancak aşırı derecede gereksiz filmin gidişatını yavaşlatan sahneler var bunun dışında hikayeyi güzel bir biçimde aktarıyor ama filmin sonu hariç hiç bir aksiyonlu jokeri yansıtan işler yok sırf jokeri karakterinin nasıl doğduğu nasıl bu hale geldiğini bayağı bi anlatıyor film idare eder ancak izlemezsenizde bir şey kaybetmezsiniz… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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6

PerikolizMoviesNov 23, 2019

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I loved the performance. It was an amazing acting by Phoenix . But the character was exposing so much of his feelings by dancing that got me tired. I had the expectation to watch the most amazing movie of all time and i didnt . It was a nice popcorn movie but nothing more… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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6

Dcuniverse101Feb 19, 2020

Phoenix’s performance is amazing and the score is absolutely fantastic. However the blueprint and elements from films such as king of comedy and taxi driver feel a bit too similar.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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6

Sosmooth1982Jul 6, 2023

Really crazy dramatized movie. Slowly watching him go crazy. Pretty shocking ending and I wasn't expecting it.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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6

PhoenixReveiwsMar 30, 2021

I liked this movie, but I didn't love it. I cant really explain it but I know anyone under 15 shouldn't even take a glance at this movie. As it's easily the darkest movie I've ever seen.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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5

NickTheCritickNov 3, 2021

Phoenix is wonderful as usual, but the film is all based on his interpretation but honestly I don't see the director's hand. The camera is there and professionally follows the character but there is not even a shot that can catch me. For myPhoenix is wonderful as usual, but the film is all based on his interpretation but honestly I don't see the director's hand. The camera is there and professionally follows the character but there is not even a shot that can catch me. For my tastes the film failed, just thanks to Joaquin Phoenix's performance this movie results to be barely watchable.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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6

JamesCollierOct 15, 2019

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. An interesting film to think about and worth watching for the cultural factor alone. We know that Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) is the Joker and this is his origin film so I won't talk about the outline of the plot in chronological order. The club scenes where he is laughing at the wrong times and he cannot tell his own jokes later on for his uncontrollable laughter are some of the most compelling scenes in the film. The production values were all good as you would expect from a big studio picture. I liked the approach of making the film darker and grittier than your standard comic book movie, you really felt as if Gotham was this volcanic cesspit ready to erupt. The buildup of the revolution with the talk of garbage everywhere and the government closing Arthur's program down and cutting his medication, his 'crazy' mother Penny Fleck (Frances Conroy), this makes the altercation on the train where he kills the guys all the more understandable and real. Thomas Wayne (Brett Cullen) calling the lower class clowns, I can see an outcry but this definitely felt overblown for me with how they then viewed the subway killings and this clown figure which is Arthur as some messiah for them to follow and rebel against the upper class. I did like how Thomas Wayne appeared less like this benevolent god as he is always seemingly portrayed though.

However, the film felt very predictable and soulless for me. I didn't believe that Arthur and Thomas Wayne were related because his mother was obviously mentally disturbed and Frances Conroy is the stereotypical unstable or strange woman (Six Feet Under' and 'American Horror Story'). There was every chance they were related however with the inscription on the back of the photo of Penny by "T.W", either way the question becomes irrelavant because we know Arthur is an unreliable narrator and his path has been set because it is a film about the Joker's origins so it had to be this way. The worst parts of the movie were with Sophie Dumond (Zazie Beetz) but not because of her perfromance, she performed as well as anyone in the film, it was a solid ensemble performance but she was let down with a poor screenplay as were the rest of the cast. They showed Arthur was delusional before his encounters with Sophie and you are expected to believe they embrace in her doorway and after his laughing fit at the comedy club, she is seen a short while after laughing with him? It was far too obvious. but it is meant to be a big revelation that he imagined it, of course he did, he is a creep.

The biggest thing for me is I felt as if I was watching some 'Taxi Driver'-'The King of Comedy' mish mash to the point where it was not its own film for me. I thought the whole time that I would rather be watching those films and whilst I largely liked the final act, it was again so obvious that Arthur was going to kill Murray Franklin (Robert De Niro) to the point where I lost interest almost completely and I was not overwhelmed by some euphoric cinematic cruscendo of a moment when it happened, because it was typical. Arthur gets his chaos anyway and it is a decent character arc, they should have ended the film with the scene before Arthur is running around the corridors because where Arthur says something along the lines of "You wouldn't get it" in the room with the woman and then the song comes on, that was the perfect time to end it, that was very good. I had mixed feelings on showing Bruce Wayne's (Dante Pereira-Olson) parents being killed, simply because I have seen it so many times but I guess it was an alright idea to connect it to Arthur's character arc. I don't think Joker needed an origin film and this should be a mystery aka 'The Dark Knight', this is not to say I went into the film with an automatic disliking for the film because the film did have its merits and I love to keep an open mind to every film obviously, I just did not see the point of this film before going in and I largely feel the same after seeing the film. 'Logan' did for me what this film could not, a dark comic book film that felt like it was its own thing. I do not think I could give it more than a six being truthful, it does not resonate with me but its foundations are solid. I would forget the hype it has got but I would also especially forget the people criticising the violence. There are more violent films that have been made and that will be made, it is 2019 and we do not need the incessant attempts by people in the media industry who are saying that forms of media, e.g. Video Games, Films, TV shows, Podcasts and so on are directly responsible for every violent or illegal act committed. The evidence proves it is quite the contrary and it is a minority of already disturbed individuals in most cases.… Expand

5 of 11 users found this helpful56

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5

RealMuthaFJan 2, 2020

As expected, Joker is not the masterpiece everyone makes it out to be.

The first 3/4ths of the movie is a generic tear-squeezing sob story about a socially awkward guy who is constantly abused by right about anyone (seriously, he gets beatenAs expected, Joker is not the masterpiece everyone makes it out to be.

The first 3/4ths of the movie is a generic tear-squeezing sob story about a socially awkward guy who is constantly abused by right about anyone (seriously, he gets beaten up by randoms twice within the first hour or so), and eventually snaps into violence. Up until the final half an hour I leaned towards a 2-3/10, but it finally managed to produce some tense, if predictable scenes. Funnily enough, the movie got better when the titular character started resembling more of its classic version, while all the "bold reimagining" only managed to produce an unlikeable and unrelatable loser.

From the technical standpoint, Joker looks slick with pretty good cinematography. As for acting, Phoenix grimaces too hard here, and I was overall left unimpressed. Have to give credit for the severe weight loss he underwent for the role, though. The music, while mostly fitting, sometimes also adds to the already overly-forced sobbing atmosphere with the least subtle violin ever played. The handful of Batman references here are largely unnecessary for the plot and only work to sell the movie to the broader audience, which, as we all know, worked out pretty well.

All in all, Joker tries to be pretentious, artsy and deep, but is only capable to churn out an outplayed moral that our society is toxic and violent, an overacting Phoenix and a few bloody scenes to look more edgy. Forgettable and overrated, although I expected nothing more.… Expand

3 of 7 users found this helpful34

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4

ThomasCJOct 11, 2020

Ok. Finally saw it. I’m baffled. By how overrated this movie is in any way. Is it an Oscar worthy master piece? No. Is it a painful, dark, emotional movie about the down-trotten?No. Is it a dangerous alt-right movie? No. Is worthy of all theOk. Finally saw it. I’m baffled. By how overrated this movie is in any way. Is it an Oscar worthy master piece? No. Is it a painful, dark, emotional movie about the down-trotten?No. Is it a dangerous alt-right movie? No. Is worthy of all the controversy? No. Is it a revolutionary, life changing movie for some parts of the culture war? I dont see why. It’s ok I guess and Phoenix’ performance is great. Thats it. He’s mentally ill, his life moderately sucks, he kill some people, the story is pretty meh! I don’t get the fuss.… Expand

3 of 7 users found this helpful34

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5

JuneMinatsukiOct 19, 2019

The Joker: A Postmodernist Elegy of the Our Age of Spiritual Deficiency The Joker hype has been sweeping through various media for a while. The reviews are highly polarised. Before I heard people saying that you will either really love theThe Joker: A Postmodernist Elegy of the Our Age of Spiritual Deficiency The Joker hype has been sweeping through various media for a while. The reviews are highly polarised. Before I heard people saying that you will either really love the Joker, or really hate it. As someone who has been looking forward to the film ever since seeing the first trailer, finally yesterday I made my journey to the cinema and had a taste of the actual film. Well, in the end, I neither really love it nor hate it. If I have to describe my feeling, I would probably say…disappointed. So what is the Joker about? To sum up, it is a story about the absurdism of life, the death of hope, the absence of meaning, moral nihilism, political anarchy, and a celebration of chaos expressed and executed in an ultimate aesthetic ways via cinematic languages along with some of the most oppressive music I’ve heard in recent films. Much of these themes, if not all, reflect the fatal problematics of our post-modernist societies and cultures who envision the contemporary world as “an age of spiritual deficiency.” I don’t have any problems with films with a realist stand trying to explore the downfalls of our culture, society, and complexity of humanities. Actually I think that this is what good cinema should do. My problem with the Joker is exactly that it didn’t do any of these. Don’t get me wrong. I still think the Joker is a great art. Joaquin Phoenix’s acting is absolutely fantastic, the music and cinematography breathtaking. But it’s still poor character-writing in which the complexity of humanity is reduced to its pitiful negativities, as in the Joker, everyone is sick, mean and evil. The ones who see or believe in something good in life are either insane (Arthur’s mother and Arthur himself) or hypocritical (the upper-class men). The former was ridiculed and labeled funny, the latter only harvested social grudge. It is a sad movie. What is even sadder is the media sensation around the movie. Before the movie was marketed as an antithesis of the mainstream commercial films in the superhero genre. It is meant to be a “sub-culture,” a non-commercial thing. But ironically, look at it now! It is very much MAINSTREAM. Chatting with a friend who lamented over “the degradation of contemporary culture,” I also can’t stop thinking—what kind of society are we living in? What kind of mentality do our mass viewers have in order to “enjoy” and even “empathize” with such a depressing film? To give a final remark, I think the Joker is, although probably against its own will, a successful commercial popcorn movie, because there is no much there beyond the overwhelming sensual experience it evokes. Nevertheless, if one does think it is in any way different and more special than other commercial popcorn films, it is special only because it makes you feel so uneasy that you could hardly swallow any popcorns while watching it.… Expand

5 of 12 users found this helpful57

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5

KalamirDec 20, 2019

It's a decent movie. But attaching it to the DC universe is just a scam to draw attention to it and increase income. Now people will repeat the stupid things they saw in the cinema (whoever watched knows what I mean). Well, I still haven'tIt's a decent movie. But attaching it to the DC universe is just a scam to draw attention to it and increase income. Now people will repeat the stupid things they saw in the cinema (whoever watched knows what I mean). Well, I still haven't got a good adaptation of the comic, because this film definitely can't be treated like that. I am against.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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5

ExemplisOct 10, 2019

Cinematography is superb, but this is not the Joker. Instead of a Nietzschean Superhuman, the destroyer of morality, the angel of chaos we get a pathetic sick loser getting wrecked by ordinary surcumstances. Wasted acting potential.

7 of 21 users found this helpful714

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4

OdoneodJan 8, 2020

Script was not worthy of Phoenix who obviously worked hard, incredibly hard, on transforming his body. Deniro added nothing to the film... He is out of touch with America and reality...as too many Hollywood actors, directors, producers andScript was not worthy of Phoenix who obviously worked hard, incredibly hard, on transforming his body. Deniro added nothing to the film... He is out of touch with America and reality...as too many Hollywood actors, directors, producers and the like are. I would love to reintroduce...or introduce...the out of touch with the working class. I will gladly take any Hollywood personnel to meet real people, real soldiers (Go Army)..(even would get brother and sister Marines, Seamen, Airmen, and our less celebrated, extremely talented, and equally important Coastguard) so we could all sit down for a powwow... PS Has Quentin Tarantino made any movies that haven't lowered morale standards?… Expand

2 of 6 users found this helpful24

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6

peanutbutterwohOct 29, 2019

A fantastic performance by Joaquin Phoenix, the violence is impactful and surprising. The movie stumbles with some awkward flashback sequences, and the ending is very messy, with a DC universe reference that feels forced. A wanna be TaxiA fantastic performance by Joaquin Phoenix, the violence is impactful and surprising. The movie stumbles with some awkward flashback sequences, and the ending is very messy, with a DC universe reference that feels forced. A wanna be Taxi Driver homage.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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6

i_m_a_blowfishNov 9, 2019

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The brilliant acting must be appreciated but other than that its plain and simple. There is very stupid humor somewhere in film which is disgusting to see. I like lighting in all the scenes but theres not much visual story telling. The worst thing is that they have adapted some scenes from brilliant movies but a whole damn scene from modern times is used as it is in a movie theater.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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6

Endo21Oct 8, 2019

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Although Joker leaves you wanting more at the end of the film, it also fails to keep you on the edge of your seat during the majority of it. Like a boxer who ends his rounds swinging hard during the last 30 seconds to gain favor in the judge's eyes. Joaquin does a great job interpreting the Joker when he finally gets to. However during most of the film rather than disturbed I only felt sorry for a man who, do to childhood trauma, let everyone walk all over him. The slightest rejection from anyone would trigger his hysteria. Surprisingly, they didn't add a scene where he buys an ice cream cone and as he gets his first taste the scoop completely falls and he has a panic attack. Hanging by a thread, thanks to his medication. When fundings for it are cut off and after finding out the truth about his mother. The Joker is born 90 mins into the movie. I sat thru it. At the theater I attended, I witness about 6-10 people leaving during the fist hour. When it was over an individual clapped, four about 8 seconds, when no one follow he stopped. Wasn't the worst movie I ever saw but definitely not a masterpiece.… Expand

4 of 13 users found this helpful49

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6

netflicOct 21, 2019

I am not a big fan of comic book movies or superhero vs. super-villain ones.
Even though the action happens in the imaginary City of Gotham, this film does not fit properly into that category. There is no hero in the movie, and the Joker isI am not a big fan of comic book movies or superhero vs. super-villain ones.
Even though the action happens in the imaginary City of Gotham, this film does not fit properly into that category. There is no hero in the movie, and the Joker is hardly THE villain.

Without spoiling the movie I would like to mention that I do not agree with all the hype about it. Especially with its moral and political message.

The movie is done extremely well technically. Joaquin Phoenix is a great actor (what a surprise!). Is it his best role? I don't think so. For an actor of his caliber it is not that difficult to play a mentally disturbed person. No doubt, he carries the whole film.

I did not like the script except the very end of it that puts the whole content into a question. Did it ALL happen? Or was it just a hallucination of a sick mind?

As a serious movie it is not working. But you cannot expect if from Marvel series.
As piece of entertainment, it definitely found huge audience. Me excluded.

I do not regret that I saw it. But I will not want to see it the second time.
Your mileage might vary.… Expand

2 of 7 users found this helpful25

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4

Agnew77Oct 5, 2019

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This movie has me battling with myself. I went in expecting to see the Joker from Batman, instead i saw a man suffering a mental breakdown. If the movie I had paid to see was titled as so I would be standing up shouting from the rooftops about the movie that portrayed the descendence of a mind into a place of despair. The acting would be top level and the feel and pace of the movie would have been perfect. Phoenix's portrayal is fantastic and is at times purposely cringe worthy watching. That being said I had went to watch a portrayal of Batmans arch nemesis The Joker. This was not even close to the character, he wasnt smart, in fact he appeared to have a learning difficulty, he was in no way close to the Joker of the comic franchise. As for the Batman timeline, the movie made no sense at all. It portrayed Bruce Wayne as 10 yrs old and Joker as approx 40yrs old. Joker shud be retiring when Batman gets going. As for the Wayne family name this movie doesnt treat it like the shining beacon in society, with suggestions of affairs and Thomas Wayne's public suggestion of Society being clowns.

This movie was as far as it could be from being a Batman movie

If u want to watch a movie about a man having a mental breakdown. Its well acted and directed, its pace slow enough to watch the breakdown happen in great detail.
As a movie its depicting that its 8 possibly 9/10

BUT it was supposed to be about the Joker, and if you want to watch the Joker from Batman then this isnt the movie for you, you should go and re watch Heath Ledger give a masterclass in the Dark Knight.… Expand

8 of 29 users found this helpful821

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6

crnppsclsOct 19, 2019

It was ok. Some of the highlights were that Phoenix carried the whole film, and comfortably. The cinematography was so elegant to show the descent of Fleck into the abyss, as if to instil empathy in the viewer, bravo.
The score wasIt was ok. Some of the highlights were that Phoenix carried the whole film, and comfortably. The cinematography was so elegant to show the descent of Fleck into the abyss, as if to instil empathy in the viewer, bravo.
The score was atmospheric and i also enjoyed the stylising although it could've been set in the 60's and not the 80's.

Didn't love the screenplay. There were a few plot holes and the story simply wasn't engaging enough. It's like they try make you empathic to the protagonist by showing you his run of bad luck and fortune but he actually rides it pretty well.
The bouts of ultra violence are sporadic yet seem forced. Ultimately, the portrayal of how his psychosis manifests is not believable. If the movie was just called "Fleck" i wouldn't have bothered. It's been shelved in the 'ok but don't need to see it again' part of my brain along with Taxi driver, Requiem for a dream , Leaving las vegas etc.
Disappointing.… Expand

3 of 11 users found this helpful38

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6

RodukaOct 14, 2019

It's a movie about a guy that is really bad at something, but he thinks he's good. He fails in succeed, and then he blames everyone but him for his failure. And he decides to kill everyone who is honest with him, 'cause he can't be upset.It's a movie about a guy that is really bad at something, but he thinks he's good. He fails in succeed, and then he blames everyone but him for his failure. And he decides to kill everyone who is honest with him, 'cause he can't be upset. Original? No. Deep? Hell No! A masterpiece? Are you on crack? But I bet you've met a lot of young folks just like that, Don't you? Full of self pity, and no self-criticism. That's Joker. Now the technical aspects of the movie are good. The acting is over but pretty good, the cinematography is great and the music is the best part of it. And compared to other Marvel movies ... it's Apocalypse Now. But it's not the best Joker, not even the second best. It's not Phoenix's best work, not even his second best work. And it's not the best, not the second best, not even the third best movie I've seen this year. But if The Black Panther made it to the best movies list last year, why not this movie?… Expand

3 of 11 users found this helpful38

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4

LarslarsmainOct 16, 2019

I thought it was a little TOO dark. And honestly got a little bored. It could be seeing a third joker character in less than 5 years has made this less interesting.

3 of 11 users found this helpful38

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5

dredstimpsonOct 12, 2019

DON'T believe the hype. (by the way, nice job on marketing "people are walking out on this movie" - I KNOW why and if your're thinking it's because it's BORING, you would be right)
I honestly don't understand how some people can rate thisDON'T believe the hype. (by the way, nice job on marketing "people are walking out on this movie" - I KNOW why and if your're thinking it's because it's BORING, you would be right)
I honestly don't understand how some people can rate this movie a 10. (Even Goodfellas is not a 10, and I LOVE!!!! Goodfellas) Are they robo-reviews or from people who have never seen a movie before in their life and are just awestruck at the marvels of the cinema? I would have given this a 1 just to try to add balance, but 5 seems adequate. Here's why: Would I ever watch this movie movie again? short answer, NO; long answer NO.
Was it terrible, no, was it watchable, as a family drama, barely (not a big fan of family dramas)
Anyway, not a 10. Jacqueline Phoenix, Az. does a nice job at playing a tormented/delusional person. Cinematography was great, but that does not in itself make for a great movie. ( I can't really recall a set piece that stands out except for the ling stairs in the promo photo)… Expand

5 of 20 users found this helpful515

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6

nyran125tkOct 15, 2019

It was ok. For the type of controversy its getting, i was expecting something really realistic and dramatic on a much harder level than this. But to be honest, that train acene was just self defense, if it was a ounch or a knife or a gun,It was ok. For the type of controversy its getting, i was expecting something really realistic and dramatic on a much harder level than this. But to be honest, that train acene was just self defense, if it was a ounch or a knife or a gun, those guys deserved it and the carnage scenes where he shoots Robert Di Niro, that would be something The Joker would do to get attention anyway. I think The Dark Knight was way more interesting, fun to watch and had more deadly violence like blowing up.a hospital in a terrorost attack, was much more provoking than this. This Joker was a
Sad individual that eventually blamed his mom for everything. Fine. But the controversy surrounding this, is completrly ridicous. sick, twisteed, sad ind… Expand

2 of 8 users found this helpful26

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5

actiniumApr 12, 2020

/ .

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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5

XemnuzFeb 29, 2020

I dont even know what to say, it's just bad. I recently watched Once upon a time in Hollywood and now this, both critically acclaimed and liked by my friends. Personally I cannot think of more overhyped/rated movies purely based on the cast.I dont even know what to say, it's just bad. I recently watched Once upon a time in Hollywood and now this, both critically acclaimed and liked by my friends. Personally I cannot think of more overhyped/rated movies purely based on the cast. I also believe that Jaq Phoenix got an Oscar for his role, if thats the case, I've lost all faith in cinema.… Expand

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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6

o_retyMar 20, 2021

Americans and their pathetic attempts at building a mythology. Apart from the "twist" with the black girl, thanks to the unreliable narrator shtick, nothing resembling any sense whatsoever ever happens in this movie and all this convolutedAmericans and their pathetic attempts at building a mythology. Apart from the "twist" with the black girl, thanks to the unreliable narrator shtick, nothing resembling any sense whatsoever ever happens in this movie and all this convoluted drama doesn't work on me, at all. And don't think the programming is off here. You see, violence is fun. It will make all of your problems go away. Also, aren't people crazy? Unhappy for no reason. And life is a failed comedian stage. And you're the comedian.… Expand

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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4

Loro_dramaFeb 19, 2021

É um filme q não traz nada de novo, quem nunca viu um personagem q é marginalizado pela sociedade e q tem problemas mentais?
Quem nunca sentiu pena de um personagem?
É um filme longo e cansativo

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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5

ivanchanelNov 23, 2019

I don’t understand why everyone likes the movie so much! Personally, I did not like him. Poor selection of music, a boring plot, predictable plot twists. I understand that this is the prehistory of the original joker, but where is his ****I don’t understand why everyone likes the movie so much! Personally, I did not like him. Poor selection of music, a boring plot, predictable plot twists. I understand that this is the prehistory of the original joker, but where is his **** character? where are the **** jokes? In general, I’m not happy with the film, I wanted to fall asleep 20 minutes after the start of the film… Expand

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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4

TurboSquirtleJan 21, 2020

Anybody saying this movie is a masterpiece is reacting to the professional critics emotionally. Now I can get why some people might like this movie but I just couldn't enjoy it. It was too dark and depraved. What an awful movie to releaseAnybody saying this movie is a masterpiece is reacting to the professional critics emotionally. Now I can get why some people might like this movie but I just couldn't enjoy it. It was too dark and depraved. What an awful movie to release into the world. Joaquin Phoenix gave an excellent performance though and to some credit, it's just not my taste.… Expand

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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6

Johnnybravo8125Oct 3, 2019

Very few parts felt like he was the Joker. The build up is slow and drawn out. Easily could have been thirty minutes shorter. The acting is great but the character is poorly written.

8 of 33 users found this helpful825

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5

dan_murphy_93Oct 7, 2019

The acting from Joaquin Phoenix is absolutely incredible. It’s the perfect origin story for the perfect villain. Not a film for people who only want to watch happy clappy films.

3 of 13 users found this helpful310

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6

EqFistOct 3, 2019

Is it a Joker ?!

No, and again no ... Only the name is left of the character. Absolutely boring and dull film. Probably at Batman vs. Superman level. The atmosphere is extremely repulsive, depressing, which contributes to the unremarkableIs it a Joker ?!

No, and again no ... Only the name is left of the character.

Absolutely boring and dull film. Probably at Batman vs. Superman level.
The atmosphere is extremely repulsive, depressing, which contributes to the unremarkable and the same type of soundtrack and painful florist from which gives death.

The film is a hodgepodge from Taxi Driver and King of Comedy, which is extremely unsuccessful, it can be seen that Phillips is impotent in terms of ideas, this is evidenced by the weak script of the film, which works only because it shows the realities of the world. I personally was not interested in looking at it, because it’s already been wiped into holes.

The game is partially saved from despondency by the game of the Phoenix, it is not in vain that they consider him a good actor, but it could not do without replay, he does not pull on Oscar. The Ledger version is extremely far away.

As a result, we have a noticeably overestimated film, which in fact is one-time. There is no desire to review.… Expand

8 of 35 users found this helpful827

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5

Godslayer79Oct 3, 2019

Joaquin Phoenix's performance was outstanding. The movie itself was average at best. There was a point in the film were the dark tone was too much, predictable and exhausting. The social commentary and study in the film was also exaggerated.

6 of 27 users found this helpful621

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5

katezoeOct 12, 2019

Worth seeing because of the performance by Joaquin Phoenix who will get an Oscar nomination. Movie about a what makes a psychopath....been done before and nothing new is revealed.

3 of 15 users found this helpful312

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4

MaxPayneIsGodOct 29, 2019

Joker is a somewhat unnecessary take on one of the world's most famous comic book villains.
Phoenix is very, very good and he will at least get an Oscar nomination for his Travis Bickle-esq downward spiral.
Something bothered me about thisJoker is a somewhat unnecessary take on one of the world's most famous comic book villains.
Phoenix is very, very good and he will at least get an Oscar nomination for his Travis Bickle-esq downward spiral.
Something bothered me about this movie right from the get go.
It was dark, very, very dark, "Gritty" and grim, but most of all it was totally devoid of fun
There was no menace, he was portrayed as nothing but a social outcast, a damaged, demented character with no charisma.
Charisma is who The Joker has always been, Nicholson, Hamill, both of their "versions" were much more endearing, menacing and dangerous. Phoenix is just a psycho who's been pushed too far.
The social commentary is there in spades and is frankly over the top. Its too dark, predictable and honestly not that good.… Expand

1 of 5 users found this helpful14

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6

SgtviperOct 13, 2019

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It was interesting to see the Joker get a standalone film. I feel as if people over hyped the film not to say it was bad. There were some scenes in the film that felt unnecessary but what made it worth it was exposure of Arthur's mentality. The idea of having a monster come from a society that is supposed to be normal was exceptional. The constant laughing was somewhat annoying though I'd let that slide. Another thing worth mentioning was Arthur killing his adoptive mother, it wasn't dramatic enough. I will give the writers praise for how Thomas Wayne and Arthur met, simply gold. I understand that most of the way how the character was used wasn't based from the comics but it's fun to see things from a different perspective. If there is a sequel to be intact in the future, moving the storyline from the comics wouldn't be bad as long as it's not too far from the source.… Expand

1 of 5 users found this helpful14

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6

TejasNairOct 9, 2019

Despite the hardcore and jumpscare violence, the so-so portrayal of mental illness and its consequences when it goes untreated, the eerie score played on repeat, great dialogues 90% of which are polished as punchlines, the brilliant backstoryDespite the hardcore and jumpscare violence, the so-so portrayal of mental illness and its consequences when it goes untreated, the eerie score played on repeat, great dialogues 90% of which are polished as punchlines, the brilliant backstory of the DC universe, and a charming performance (of a life time) by Joaquin Phoenix, Joker was an underwhelming crime drama for me. TN.… Expand

2 of 11 users found this helpful29

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6

DaUnknownCriticOct 4, 2019

Joker has problems. Pun intended. And I’m not referring to Arthur Fleck, -Todd Phillips’ latest incarnation of the Clown Prince of Crime – but the picture itself.

As if the weight of 80 years in print or 5 decades on the screen weren’tJoker has problems. Pun intended. And I’m not referring to Arthur Fleck, -Todd Phillips’ latest incarnation of the Clown Prince of Crime – but the picture itself.

As if the weight of 80 years in print or 5 decades on the screen weren’t oceanically crushing enough, we now are served another incarnation of an antagonist as ubiquitously immortal as Moriarty or Hannibal Lecter. What more can be said? Is there any meat left on the bones of the mythology?

If one were to believe the marketing, we’re going to see a Taxi Driver meets The King of Comedy meets The French Connection. Sounds great, right? It would be, but it was marketing.

What Joker does deliver is a thin screed on mental illness in an even sicker society. This society in decline has sensibilities contemporary to our own, despite the trappings of the 1970’s which seem like an aesthetic afterthought. Those versed in Batlore are presented Warner Brothers intellectual property anchors to orient themselves in the expanding cinematic graphic novel universe, but they are halfhearted name dropping at best. Trappings.

At the heart of Joker is Arthur Fleck – ironically named. Joaquin Phoenix is masterful, more charming and sad than haunting. Despite his valiant energies, he’s not given much with which to work. Often times, he’s left to his own devices to soft shoe it to bridge scenes. No joke – Phoenix does quite a bit of improvisational dancing in Joker. Phillips and Scott Silver’s script give Phoenix very little to do other than riff on a psychological tick for two hours.

Arthur Fleck is a mental illness cliche. Abused, medicated and neurotic. There is no arc for Fleck. Fleck lurches from one unfortunate circumstance to another. There’s no growth, no descent into madness – just an already poor, disturbed, delusional Arthur. We are never given any reason to empathize with Fleck. An excellent counterpoint to this character is another Phoenix played, Theodore Twombly in Spike Jonze’s superior Her (2013). Twombly is equally marginalized like Fleck, but Jonze and Phoenix give us little glimpses of the character’s humanity in the midst of his existential horror. We never get those in Joker. We, like Arthur, receive unsatisfactory reveals with epic portent and paltry emotional punch.

Joker also lacks unifying tonal elements. Phillips can’t seem to decide if Joker is a moody, introspective independent character study or if it wants to wax epic. A solo cello pervades throughout the score, but at key moments Hildur Guðnadóttir seems to dial it up to full Zimmer. The production design is as anachronistic and as disjointed as the score. Everything feels dressed up, the elements are there but the mise-en-scène is missing. This world is too much our own. Joker is one of those rare pictures where the sum of its parts don’t equal the whole. I couldn’t help but think, why wasn’t it shot on film stock using vintage lenses? Though there is not much CGI, Joker is very crisp, very digital and that works against it.

One thing that does work is the vintage music. One can imagine the creative possibilities of what wanted to be a lyrical, musical picture edited around classic songs. That was a glaringly missed opportunity.

Zazie Beetz is all but an afterthought in this picture, a wasted talent and a virtual plot device.

Phillips’ Coup de Gras in this disjointed ramble through mental illness mythology is an equally disjointed monologue at the end. I’ll not spoil it, but it’s a cheap, self conscious, point blank expository shot at society. There’s no teeth to it, it’s not menacing at all. It’s banal and abrupt. For those that wish or worry that this film will be the Anarchist, Alt-Right or Incel manifesto … don’t. This film just isn’t that smart or that creative. There’s a denouement, but there’s not much to it other than cinematic padding.

If you pay close attention, you’ll see little homages to The King of Comedy, The Dark Knight, Psycho and Network. They’re not egregiously plagiaristic, just flair for the sake of flair. The Era of Easter Eggs needs to end.

On the up side, the 20 minutes of trailers prior to Joker was exciting. A breath of fresh, serious cinematic air after a long hot Summer of Spandex.

On a scale of 5, I give Joker a 2.75 and charitably round it up to 3.

I’d wait for a $2.99 Amazon Prime rental for this one, folks. Hell, maybe just wait for Netflix.

As old blue eyed Sinatra said, That’s Life.… Expand

2 of 11 users found this helpful29

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6

abdallah9luluOct 5, 2019

i think it is overrated its a good movie nevertheless with great scenes but not good enough to deserve all that praise

3 of 17 users found this helpful314

All this user's reviews

4

judahjsnOct 7, 2019

Phoenix's performance is incredible but it's wasted on this fake deep and immature movie. It's seems irresponsible to handle such weighty topics as mental illness, class warfare and domestic terrorism with an approach this fake deep. ThisPhoenix's performance is incredible but it's wasted on this fake deep and immature movie. It's seems irresponsible to handle such weighty topics as mental illness, class warfare and domestic terrorism with an approach this fake deep. This feels like a treatise on anarchism written by a high schooler. Many people are calling it one note and it's true that it is one long minor chord. But it's also tonally inconsistent with itself. Violence is handled with ultra-realism. Everything else is distorted into a melancholy comic book-like sepia to the point that life has no grace notes and everything is dirty and cloudy. You could make the case that that's a representation of the Joker's mental state – he repeatedly says in the film that he's never experienced a good moment in his life. But does that even make sense? If all of his feelings are sour, then that's his baseline. How does he qualify experience as negative if he has nothing better to compare it to?… Expand

3 of 20 users found this helpful317

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5

AlexCuencaOct 8, 2019

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Ha sido una de las películas más esperadas y mejores comentarios ha recibido en esta temporada, muchos llegan a decir que es un obra maestra y pues si está película es muy cruda y pues muchas personas debieron identificarse con con la forma que (Arthur), se convirtió en el Joker, de una payaso no malo, pero que le iba mal y que poco a poco fue perdiendo la razón , una persona que consumía las medicamentos para el comportamiento, y cuando dejó de ser amable de desató toda una mente criminal, los asesinatos son crudos y fuertes algo que los espectadores, el detalles más jugoso fue cuando aparece Batman de niño y como un delincuente con máscara de payaso les dispara, la interpretación lograda del Guason es diferente a todo antes visto es un personaje rehumano, con el que una persona se puede identificar. 5 puntos bien merecidos… Expand

2 of 14 users found this helpful212

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5

ManormanOct 9, 2019

The movie felt like it had a lot of plot covinient moments and characters and by that I mean that stuff just happens to the main character for no reason at all except to artificially continue the plot in a cheap way not to mention a lot ofThe movie felt like it had a lot of plot covinient moments and characters and by that I mean that stuff just happens to the main character for no reason at all except to artificially continue the plot in a cheap way not to mention a lot of the characters are just there for again plot convinient.None of the characters except for ,Arthur, have any real significance or interesting stuff to them,They are litetarally just there to continue the plot in a cheap way that makes it very unsatisfying not to mention all Arthur does for most of the movie is nothing,most of the scenes in the movie is just there to purely show how oscar baity this movie truly is .This movie would lead you believe we'll see Arthur as a character but all we see are this style over substance scenes not to mention the dialoge is very weak in the beginning and only gets decent at the end and is not just the dialoge but the whole movie gets a little bit better towards the end and his so call transition through insanity isn't as good,for the simple fact that Arthur does absolutly nothing to tell us that he was even "normal" to beggin with.Theres absolutly nothing that makes this so call transition good because this movie does nothing with Arthur.The only real scenes where style and substance are somewhat balance are the scenes were Arthur is with his therapist.This movie is purely style over substance.… Expand

2 of 14 users found this helpful212

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5

DominArsenOct 27, 2019

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A particular film because it is an author film sold as a blockbuster under 17 years old. The plans are slow, working just like the light and the angle of approach not to mention the environments and the different places. This is the story of a character coming to embrace the madness of the world to make something of coloring red. The film is particularly good for his illness and is done in a rigorous way. Nothing has the area to be left to chance .. But I do not find this film excellent. It fits like a very good anti-hero movie such as we rarely see today alongside super-hero movies breaking the box office. The success of this joker can be because it fits in a time when the forbidden becomes allowed -17Ans, but especially that compare to what can do Marvel or DC; tries a sneakier and cinematic approach. Finally it may be the only movie that shows the cinema that we could see people fan of superheroes. That says a lot about our time. Thank you

Un film particulier, car c'est un film d'auteur vendu comme un blockbuster moins de 17ans. Les plans sont lents, travailler tout comme la lumière et l'angle d'approche sans compter les environnements et les différents lieux. C'est l'histoire d'un personnage venant embrasser la folie du monde pour en faire quelque chose de colorier en rouge. Le film rend particulièrement bien sa maladie et le fait surtout de manière rigoureuse est prolongé. Rien n'a l'aire d'être laissée au hasard.. Pourtant je ne trouve pas ce film excellent. Il s'insère comme un très bon film d'antihéros tel qu'on en voit rarement aujourd'hui à côté des films de super héros qui casse le box-office. Le succès de ce joker vient peux être du fait qu'il s'insère dans une époque ou l'interdit devient permis #-17Ans, mais surtout que comparer à ce que peux faire Marvel ou DC; tente une approche plus sournoise et cinématographique. Finalement c'est peux être le seul film qui montre ce qu'est le cinéma qu'on pu voir les gens fan de super héros. Cela en dit long sur notre époque. Merci accompagnatrice… Expand