Unmasking the Joker: An Analysis of “Joker: Folie à Deux” and its Surprising Similarity to “Gotham”

Disclaimer: This article contains major spoilers for “Joker: Folie à Deux” and “Gotham.”

Arthur Fleck: A Study of the Character in “Joker”

In the 2019 film “Joker” directed by Todd Phillips, we are introduced to a character named Arthur Fleck, portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix. Arthur is a character who is made to feel insignificant, as if his dreams and aspirations are worthless, akin to a non-entity in society.

This character study reveals some intriguing aspects to Arthur’s persona. Shaped by a cycle of abuse and trauma, Arthur initially tries to suppress his pain by attempting to make people laugh. However, one poor joke after another spirals into a murder spree, and before he can comprehend the gravity of his actions, he evolves into a symbol of anarchy in Gotham, unwittingly spreading his insanity among others.

From Individual to Idea: The Evolution of the Joker

Arthur begins as the Joker, but his notorious actions transform him from an individual into a concept, a shared idea among those infatuated with what they believe he represents, thus spawning many who aspire to emulate the Joker.

This concept is hinted at towards the end of Phillips’ first film, but “Joker: Folie à Deux” delves more deeply into this shared identity, which mirrors the most violent and lawless aspects of Gotham. Arthur’s trial becomes a spectacle for his followers, who swarm to witness it, almost worshipping the cult of personality formed by a completely broken and disillusioned man that society has somehow failed.

Arthur Fleck’s Downfall and the Rise of the Joker

Phillips takes this concept to its extreme by completely eradicating Fleck’s Joker in the film’s shocking, confusing ending. Arthur renounces the existence of the Joker as an alternate persona and is repeatedly stabbed by an inmate who mimics the Joker’s laughter, presumably adopting the mantle.

Arthur is not the only one fascinated by the mythology surrounding this figure. Harley Quinn, played by Lady Gaga, indulges in the anarchic fantasy of embracing chaos, and is ultimately let down by Arthur’s insistence on acknowledging his psychological trauma and his true self, as it completely contradicts this shared dream.

“Gotham”: A Different Take on the Joker

Interestingly, this concept is not new; a more developed version has been seen in “Gotham,” a series that explores some of the most popular villains in Batman’s rogue’s gallery. Despite adolescent Bruce Wayne (David Mazouz) not embracing his vigilante status until the series finale of the five-season show, the series presents a unique interpretation of the Joker, without ever using that name, due to studio-imposed restrictions on creative liberties.

If you’ve watched even a single episode of “Gotham,” you’ll know that the series has a deliberately campy and highly stylized tone. It shows that anything is possible when it comes to the interpretation of its vast array of comic book-inspired characters, ranging from Oswald Cobblepot to Ra’s al Ghul.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both “Joker: Folie à Deux” and “Gotham” present unique interpretations of the iconic Joker character. While Phillips’ film explores the transformation of a broken individual into an anarchic symbol, “Gotham” offers a different perspective on the Joker’s mythology. Despite their different approaches, both narratives explore the idea of the Joker as a shared identity, reflecting the darker aspects of Gotham’s society.

FAQs

What is the main theme of “Joker: Folie à Deux”?

The main theme of “Joker: Folie à Deux” is the transformation of Arthur Fleck into the Joker, and how his actions turn him from an individual into a shared identity.

How does “Gotham” present the Joker?

“Gotham” presents a unique interpretation of the Joker without ever using that name. The series explores the Joker as a shared identity, reflecting the darker aspects of Gotham’s society.

How are “Joker: Folie à Deux” and “Gotham” similar?

Both “Joker: Folie à Deux” and “Gotham” explore the idea of the Joker as a shared identity, reflecting the violent and lawless aspects of Gotham’s society.

Credit: www.slashfilm.com