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Review of the Joker

The Joker (2019) — Movie Review by Sachit Murthy

The Joker (2019) — Movie Review

Joaquin Phoenix as The Joker

It's not often that I come out of a theater in a trance. The last time I remember was when I saw The Green Mile. This was one such 'trance' event. The moment you leave the auditorium, the image of Joaquin Phoenix's Joker lingers like a haunting melody.

Joaquin Phoenix: A Performance for the Ages

Joaquin Phoenix has taken the art of acting to another stratosphere. Every movement, every laugh, every flicker of emotion is intensely precise. Even when he runs, it is the authentic Joker way of running. And when he laughs, the sound pierces you — simultaneously unnerving and tragic, eliciting both horror and empathy.

Story, Themes, and Social Commentary

At first glance, The Joker might seem like an 'against all odds' story. But the film runs far deeper than that. It is a profound exploration of society's marginalized, those left unseen and unheard. Arthur Fleck’s transformation into the Joker amplifies the anger, despair, and invisibility that many feel in a world indifferent to human suffering. The subtext is brilliant: this is not just the rise of a villain, but the story of what neglect, isolation, and societal cruelty can create.

Cinematography and Mood

The visual palette, punctuated by dimly lit streets, neon chaos, and claustrophobic interiors, mirrors Arthur's deteriorating psyche. Hildur Guðnadóttir's score is both haunting and hypnotic, weaving tension into every frame, and Todd Phillips’ direction allows the city and its people to feel both oppressive and alive. Gotham is no longer a comic book playground — it is a character in itself.

Impact and Legacy

Rarely does a film leave you unsettled and exhilarated at the same time. The Joker lingers in your mind, forcing reflection on society and the human condition. Joaquin Phoenix's performance is so layered, so visceral, that the Academy would be doing a disservice if it overlooked him. If he doesn't get the Oscar for this, I might just wear a skirt for a full day!

Final Thoughts

The Joker is more than a comic book adaptation — it is a haunting, unforgettable cinematic experience, a mirror to the darker corners of our world, and a triumph of performance, storytelling, and artistry. Truly, a movie to experience, think about, and remember.

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