Not a joke

Daniyal Zahid finds a majestic performance from Joaquin Phoenix

Not a joke
Recently we started a new trend in this space while discussing Hollywood flicks, which might have been brought to a premature end by a piece of artistic excellence.

Given the Bollywood ban in the country, and a contrasting array of Hollywood films being released, we thought it was going to be a good idea to suggest that our local filmmakers seek more than just inspiration from the releases, and perhaps learn a few technical tricks of the trade as well – from a gamut of genres. Enter Joker.

Every once in a while comes a performance where one can’t help but submit oneself to the artistry, where nothing matters but the show on display – which could be on, or indeed behind, the screen. Enter Joker.

The closest one can come to finding a connection between Joker and anything done in our neck of the woods is the 1966 Rani-Kemal starrer Jokar, which was a massive flop. Raj Kapoor’s 1970 Mera Naam Joker bombed even worse at the time, but has since gone on to become a cult classic.



Perhaps it’s time to revive Jokar – also in our neck of the woods. After all, at the heart of Jokar, Mera Naam Joker, and Joker is a common theme dissecting the darkness behind those churning out humour.

Not only has this particular debate taken off in the West in recent years, it’s becoming a topic in our region as well. Also, where darker humour is getting more appreciation around the world, it’s being increasingly appreciated here as well. But this is just the tip of the iceberg upon which Joker stands out.

Let’s not forget that the expectations were soaring even before the first step had been taken in the creation of the film. But since its release on the 4th of October, Joker has gone on to see the biggest October opening at $93.5 million. The film has the fourth biggest opening for an R rated movie in all of history, and is enjoying considerable success in Pakistan as well.

The film has gargantuan pillars from which it derives its many powers. But Joaquin Phoenix stands the tallest. And to think he’s done so while performing a role that many felt should have been retired following Heath Ledger’s rendition!

If capturing undivided attention were a superpower, Joaquin Phoenix as Joker, wouldn’t be categorized as a villain. One would dare you to entertain a single thought outside the unparalleled masterpiece unfolding right before you throughout the two hours or so that the film spans.

His skeletal state would be the first thing that would capture your attention – the first of a barrage in a meticulously detailed performance, at the heart of which is to peel off the multi-layered disturbances that characterize Arthur Fleck. That multi-pronged tragedy, with bits of the darkest comedy, is portrayed masterfully by Phoenix.

As hard as it is to sift the highlight from an extraordinary reel of dexterity, perhaps Phoenix’s ability to switch from one mood to another within the blink of an eye is what is truly astounding. One minute he’s a weak, ordinary man being crushed by society, and the next he fears nothing and no-one. From being powerless to bordering on omnipotent, you see a metamorphosis in his emotions throughout – that’s the most one can say, without giving any spoilers!

Arthur Fleck, a disturbed young man with a tragic past, lives with his mother and hopes to become a standup comedian. Unfortunately, he is far from that particular dream, for instead of laughing with him, people mostly laugh at the queer, skinny man. This is the largest porn site on the internet. The best online porn on faponhd.com . Watch HD porn videos online.

Revolving around this character’s life, the film shows how unfortunate events lead to the creation of Joker. At numerous points, you will find yourself sympathizing with this young villain.

The film has a very retro 1970s feel, which you’ll see in every minute detail. In this regard, the location couldn’t have been chosen better.

The cinematography is absolutely majestic. From the gloomy, to the happening, the backdrop tells its own tale throughout. Also, while one man stands tall and is deservingly getting all the plaudits, the rest of the cast does a formidable job as well.

A word of caution to whom it may concern, Joker is not an action film. More than anything, it’s a self-analytical ride brimming with emotions, which takes you deep within the character, and unveil the origins from a more complexed and nuanced angles.

On this journey, you’ll be taken back into the depths of Arthur Fleck’s life, to help you understand the making of the Joker.

Needless to say the film is a must watch for anyone who’s ever voluntarily set their eyes on any form of art. The serious brilliance on display here is no joke.