Analyzing the Fate of Sophie in the New Joker Movie

In the recently released Joker movie, director Todd Phillips has raised several unanswered questions that leave viewers questioning the motives and actions of the titular character, Arthur Fleck. One of the most prominent and controversial questions pertains to the fate of Sophie. This article delves into the implications and potential outcomes based on the information available and the context provided by the movie.

Visual and Narrative Cues from the Movie

Almost every aspect of joker movie is open to interpretation, with much left up to the viewer to deduce. In one scene that was cut from the final release, viewers can see a significant clue about Sophie's fate. After Arthur leaves the building while dressed as Joker, he is seen carrying bunches of what the script referred to as magic flowers. This was a moment that was originally intended to show his intent, or rather lack thereof, regarding Sophie.

According to the script, it was mentioned that Sophie had lost her job at the bank and was worried about not having a paycheck. In the deleted scene, Arthur left these flowers and a sum of money he took from Randall's pocket outside Sophie's doorstep. This action suggests that Arthur was not intending to harm her but rather wanted to provide a form of financial support. This context underscores the complexity of Arthur's motivations and how they don't always align with violence.

Arthur Fleck's Motives and Actions

Arthur Fleck's actions throughout the movie reveal a pattern that tends to be triggered by individuals who actively used him or provoked him. He has killed one coworker who framed him in front of another, allowing the latter to leave unharmed. In the case of the other coworker, Arthur did not harm them, implying that Arthur had a certain degree of mercy for those who did not instigate a violent response.

Considering this, it is highly unlikely that Arthur would have harmed Sophie. His actions thus far, particularly those resulting from provocation or manipulation, do not suggest a pattern that would include targeting individuals who did not contribute to his state of mind or actions. This aligns with the broader narrative arc of Joker, which is designed to make viewers sympathize with Arthur, a man who has been repeatedly abused by society.

Meta-Level Considerations

Beyond the literal actions of the character, the meta-level context is also crucial in understanding Arthur's behavior. The movie is a character study that explores the psychological breakdown of a man who has been repeatedly beaten down by society. Arthur's eventual descent into madness, while not condoned, is meant to be a reflection of the injustice he has faced. Leave Sophie alive would detract from this message, as her presence helps reinforce the pivotal idea that Arthur is a broken soul.

The narrative structure, with Arthur not harming Sophie, supports the movie's central theme of redemption and the consequences of society's neglect. This adds a layer of depth and complexity that encourages viewers to see Arthur not just as a villain, but as a tragic figure whose actions are a product of his circumstances.

Conclusion

In conclusion, based on the deleted scene and the character's actions and motivations, it is highly improbable that Arthur Fleck killed Sophie. His behavior throughout the movie, particularly in the instances involving his coworkers, suggests a complex and varied pattern of responses rather than a blanket involvement in violence. The cut scene and the broader narrative framework of Joker emphasize Arthur as a victim of societal neglect and mistreatment, making it evident that Sophie's survival aligns with the movie's deeper thematic intentions.

Exploring the implications of these aspects of the movie offers viewers a richer understanding of the character and the film's overall message. Whether you agree with Arthur's actions or not, the nuanced portrayal of his character adds a layer of complexity that makes the Joker a thought-provoking cinematic experience.