By Shane Hernandez, Contributing Writer
DC Comics truly took a gamble with “Joker”. While DC has established their own cinematic universe with “The Man Of Steel”, each film feels like it has fallen short for me. “Joker” remains absent from this cinematic universe and exists as it’s own self contained film. When rumors for the movie surfaced, it was met with major criticism as it doesn’t have a single origin story. The Joker says in Alan Moore’s graphic novel “Killing Joke”, “If I have to have a past, the I prefer it to be in multiple choice.”
When this news came out that “Joker” would be about a man named Arthur Fleck with constant laughing condition, I was skeptical of the movie. I didn’t think it was necessary or even remotely make-able. It turns out, I was completely and utterly wrong.
Joker is single-handedly one of the greatest comic book movies I’ve ever seen. Actor Joaquin Phoenix and Director Todd Phillips prove that comics are more than just mindless blockbusters trying to make a quick buck. They’re truly a work of art if given the proper creative control and freedom. Who knew that the man who made “Old School”, “The Hangover” & “Due Date” could make such a thought provoking film? His creative team truly made his vision come true with cinematographer Lawrence Sher helping to create some of the most incredible camera work I’ve ever seen.
The movie makes very bold moves in addressing lots of mental health problems in our society. Though they aren’t trying to glorify what the Joker does, you’re given a look into his mind and understand why he is the monster that he has become. Before I saw the movie, I found out there was a shooting threat at Bella Terra theater that terrified students. A friend of mine made a comment that films like this shouldn’t be made because this is how crazed shooters get crazy ideas that they can be like the Joker.
While I do agree that this movie carries controversial messages, I don’t think films like this should be censored. If anything, “Joker” is trying to convey that people like Arthur Fleck need our help. Cinema is a form of art that can convey meaningful messages. While “Joker” is receiving negative backlash of attracting these potential threats, I believe it is attempting to help and make a change in our society.
What’s sad about ‘Joker” is how true it is to what society is today; Phoenix shows how the cruel nature of society can affect an individual with mental illnesses and how easily one can be destroyed by the world.
