The story picks up after the events of the first film with Arthur Fleck AKA Joker tucked away in Arkham Asylum (which is now styled to look like Alcatraz Island). The system is trying to prove his competency to stand trial. He is treated quite questionably there, especially by a guard named Jackie Sullivan played by the always excellent Brendan Gleeson. While there he comes in contact with Lee Quinzel (Lady Gaga).

Their relationship provides the main thrust of the tale but it is a one-sided affair as very little backstory is offered about Quinzel other than her sycophantic attraction to Fleck’s darker side. Most of the exposition is told via dream sequences so it is not easy to decipher what is real and what is not. The dark and gritty reality of living in Gotham City plays an important role as well.

Todd Phillips should be applauded for trying something different as he returns to the world of Arthur Fleck with a new concept. Draping things in a musical format is an odd choice but is does have a number of engaging and surreal moments. He can always count on Joaquin Phoenix’s force of-nature approach to acting to give validity to almost any approach desired. Underutilising Lady Gaga’s role does however feel like a missed opportunity.
Rob Hudson
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When casting this story, one that is based on true events, the filmmakers followed the tradition of the funny man and straight guy. No guesses needed to know whom Jonah Hill and Miles Teller end up playing. Hill in particular, returns to a role we’ve seen numerous times before and the unfortunate result is the film ends up playing out like a poor man’s version of The Wolf Of Wall Street.

There are moments of true humour and more than a few situations that are extremely scary but the story sits uncomfortably between those two worlds. Teller is effective and seems to be more and more comfortable trying to carry a film. Cast support is also efficient.

Reading up on the real characters that make up this true-life story, one is left with the feeling that the actual circumstances were not quite as humours as the ones that exist in the film. It seems it might have made a more effective film if it was based more in fact or outright farce.

Rob Hudson
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Set in a grotty version of Gotham City with its fluid timeline and using contrasting elements to their fullest effect, you are never left to slide into a comfortable viewing experience. From mismatching colours to the acerbic soundtrack to confrontational close ups, you are keep on your toes.

It’s a sign of the film’s power that you relate to Arthur Fleck/Joker in the full range of emotions. You will feel sympathy, anger, revulsion, triumph and horror in almost equal measure. Writer/director/producer Todd Phillips also has a large number of surprises up his sleeve for both comic book fans and viewers that are only peripherally interested in comic book lore.

Far from being exploitive of people with mental health illnesses, it is absolutely a cautionary tale about letting the less advantaged people in our society fall between the cracks. It also emphasises the criminal proclivity that oozes out from the shadows of broken family units. Loose empathy at your own peril.

Rob Hudson
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“Joker” centers around the iconic arch nemesis and is an original, standalone story not seen before on the big screen. Phillips’ exploration of Arthur Fleck, a man disregarded by society, is not only a gritty character study, but also a broader cautionary tale.

JOKER also stars Zazie Beetz, Frances Conroy, Marc Maron, Bill Camp, Glenn Fleshler, Shea Whigham, Brett Cullen, Douglas Hodge and Josh Pais.

JOKER releases in Australia on October 3, 2019.
www.facebook.com/roadshow

When casting this story, one that is based on true events, the filmmakers followed the tradition of the funny man and straight guy. No guesses needed to know whom Jonah Hill and Miles Teller end up playing. Hill in particular, returns to a role we’ve seen numerous times before and the unfortunate result is the film ends up playing out like a poor man’s version of The Wolf Of Wall Street.

There are moments of true humour and more than a few situations that are extremely scary but the story sits uncomfortably between those two worlds. Teller is effective and seems to be more and more comfortable trying to carry a film. Cast support is also efficient.

Reading up on the real characters that make up this true-life story, one is left with the feeling that the actual circumstances were not quite as humours as the ones that exist in the film. It seems it might have made a more effective film if it was based more in fact or outright farce.

Rob Hudson
www.wardogsthemovie.com