The Joker

Forever alone in a crowd, failed comedian Arthur Fleck seeks connection as he walks the streets of Gotham City. Arthur wears two masks -- the one he paints for his day job as a clown, and the guise he projects in a futile attempt to feel like he's part of the world around him. Isolated, bullied and disregarded by society, Fleck begins a slow descent into madness as he transforms into the criminal mastermind known as the Joker.

The film, which follows the evolution of a man named Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) from a guy who is troubled to a guy who is out here murdering people, has sparked concerns that it will inspire real-life violence.

The Joker
Media sector: film
Release: 2019
Rating: BBFC 15

Controversy: Social outcast Arthur Fleck becomes the Joker as he descends into madness.  During an exploitative TV interview that a chat show host thinks will draw a big audience, Fleck rants about the society that has let him down before shooting the host.  This starts a riot and he is seen (perhaps only in his own mind) as a revolutionary or a hero.

Concern: A small part of Fleck’s story is he believes himself to be in a romantic relationship with a neighbour who eventually breaks that delusion.  Given that Fleck shunned by his love interest, many believed that this film was glorifying incels; a member of an online community of young men who are hostile towards those who are sexually active because they are unable to be sexually active.  This is usually blamed on females who they are interested in, but do not return that interest.

Alternative: The film is a condemnation of austerity (difficult economic issues) and suggests that poverty, abuse and unchecked mental health can lead to violence.  It could be seen as a warning rather than a call to arms.