The Joker is one of the most iconic villains in the Batman franchise, and has been portrayed by several actors over the years. In the latest Batman movie, audiences were introduced to a new version of the Joker, portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix.
But who is this new Joker? Let’s take a closer look.
Origins of the Joker
Before we dive into this new iteration of the character, let’s first discuss where the Joker came from. The Joker was first introduced in Batman #1 in 1940, and was created by Bob Kane, Bill Finger, and Jerry Robinson. Originally, he was meant to be a one-off villain for Batman to face, but his popularity quickly grew and he became a staple in the Batman universe.
The New Joker
In the latest Batman movie, simply titled “Joker”, Joaquin Phoenix portrays Arthur Fleck – a failed comedian who descends into madness and becomes the iconic villain we all know as the Joker. This version of the character is much darker and more grounded than previous versions.
Physical Appearance
One of the most striking things about this new Joker is his physical appearance. Rather than wearing flashy suits or garish makeup like previous versions, this Joker wears a simple red suit jacket and green vest over a yellow shirt. His hair is unkempt and wild, and his makeup looks almost clown-like in its simplicity.
Personality
While previous versions of the Joker have often been portrayed as chaotic and unpredictable, this new version is more calculated and methodical. He still has a twisted sense of humor and enjoys causing chaos, but he also has clear motivations for his actions.
The Reception
Despite some controversy surrounding its release due to concerns over its portrayal of mental illness and violence, “Joker” was generally well-received by audiences and critics alike. Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of the character was particularly praised, with many calling it one of the best performances of his career.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the new Joker portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix is a darker, more grounded take on the iconic villain. While he may look different and behave differently than previous versions, he still embodies the twisted sense of humor and chaotic nature that make the Joker such a compelling character.