Put on a happy face.

Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Shea Whigham, Bill Camp, Glenn Fleshler

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★☆ - near perfect

"For my whole life, I didn't know if I even really existed. But I do, and people are starting to notice." – Arthur Fleck

Why watch this? Could Joaquin Phoenix possibly top Heath Ledger? Well, it's pretty darn close.

Plot Summary: This film tells the story of Arthur Fleck, a struggling comedian and clown-for-hire living in a gritty Gotham City during the early 1980s. Battling mental illness, poverty, and isolation, Arthur's grip on reality slowly unravels as society continuously rejects and demeans him. His descent into madness culminates in a series of violent acts, transforming him into a notorious figure who unwittingly ignites an uprising against the city's corrupt and indifferent elite.

Dad's Preview: Warner Brothers decided to green light this stand-alone origin story outside of its DC Extended Universe. Arthur Fleck, a failed clown and comedian, descends into mental illness, becoming more and more twisted and violent. In a final desperate act, he rallies the disenchanted of Gotham City to revolt against the wealthy class. The Crown Prince of Crime is born. Phoenix gives a master class on method acting as the damaged, insane Arthur Fleck.

DC Films, Village Roadshow Pictures, Bron Creative, Joint Effort;
Warner Bros.