Joker (2019) Review in 2025
A psychological thriller that delves into the origin story of the Joker, exploring themes of mental illness, isolation, and the breakdown of society.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
No, due to mature themes, graphic violence, and strong language.
CineReview Recommendation
Watch in theaters for the full immersive experience. Not recommended for younger audiences due to mature themes and graphic content.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The movie follows Arthur Fleck, a struggling comedian and clown-for-hire, who descends into madness after being bullied and marginalized by society. He eventually becomes the Joker, a symbol of chaos and anarchy, and wreaks havoc on Gotham City.
Review Details
story9.80/10
The story is a masterclass in building tension and exploring the complexities of the human mind. It's a thought-provoking and emotionally charged narrative that will leave you questioning the nature of reality.
acting9.80/10
The acting is superb, with standout performances from Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, and Zazie Beetz. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, making the emotional moments all the more impactful.
characters9.50/10
The characters are multi-dimensional and expertly crafted. Joaquin Phoenix's performance as Arthur Fleck/Joker is phenomenal, bringing depth and nuance to the character.
direction9.80/10
Todd Phillips' direction is superb, creating a visceral and immersive experience that draws you in and refuses to let go. The pacing is expertly handled, building towards a climax that's both shocking and cathartic.
cinematography9.50/10
The cinematography is stunning, capturing the gritty and decaying atmosphere of 1980s Gotham City. The use of color and lighting is masterful, adding to the overall mood and tone of the film.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Masterful storytelling, phenomenal performances, and stunning cinematography make this a must-see film. The themes of mental illness, isolation, and the breakdown of society are timely and thought-provoking.
Cons
Some viewers may find the graphic content and mature themes off-putting. The pacing can be slow at times, but this is a minor quibble in an otherwise exceptional film.
Notable Quotes
"All it takes is one bad day to reduce the sanest man alive to lunacy."
"Why so serious?"
"You can't fix what's broken by pretending it was never broken."
