Introduction

The recent release of the new Joker movie has sparked debates and criticisms from audiences and critics alike. While the film has received critical acclaim for its performances and technical qualities, some viewers and film enthusiasts have pointed out notable flaws and inconsistencies in the narrative, character development, and direction. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the issues that have emerged and discusses why the movie may fall short of expectations for those who are eagerly awaiting a high-quality origin story.

Technical Inconsistencies in Action Scenes

The film's opening scene on the subway has raised concerns among viewers regarding the consistency and realism of the action sequences. Specifically, the shooting sequence has been criticized for its unrealistic portrayal of the Joker's weapon. For example, in one scene, the Joker shoots eight times without any apparent reload. This inconsistency is particularly evident in the first shooting at the subway, where he fires one shot into the head, two into the chest, one into the leg, another into the back, and then three more shots. These actions raise questions about whether this is an example of the Joker as an unreliable narrator or a simple editing mistake. The weapons used in the film, such as the Smith Wesson Model 36, only have a 5-bullet drum, adding to the disbelief of the scene.

Weak Character Development and Confusion

The character of Sophie Dumond, played by Zazie Beetz, has been a focal point of criticism. Many viewers argue that she is the weakest character in the film and offers little to no impact on the main character, Arthur Fleck. Beetz's character is often seen as a passive presence rather than a driving force in the narrative. This raises concerns about the film's ability to effectively convey psychological and emotional depth. In fact, she falls short in addressing the fundamental question of why Arthur Fleck becomes the Joker, which is a critical element of the film's narrative arc. This flaw undermines the overall impact and coherence of the story, making the film weaker in its attempt to delve into the Joker's motivations.

Unrelatable and Uninspired Characterization

Arthur Fleck's love interest in the film is a character that leaves much to be desired, failing to meet the expectations established in earlier works such as The Killing Joke. Had the film taken inspiration from that graphic novel, Arthur might have had a more significant and impactful relationship with a character like his wife. A narrative that begins with a dramatic buildup to an emotional and powerful outburst from Arthur, expressing his feelings of inadequacy, would have created a more profound connection between the audience and the protagonist. Unfortunately, the character in question, Sophie, fails to deliver on this front. She lacks the depth and complexity needed to drive the emotional and psychological journey of the story.

Pacing, Sound, and Storytelling Issues

Several practical aspects of the film have also come under scrutiny. The editing and pacing of the movie have been described as choppy in places, with some critics feeling that the sound effects are not robust enough. This can lead to a disjointed viewing experience where the action or dialogue feels off, detracting from the overall immersion. In terms of storytelling, the film may benefit from a tighter narrative structure, as some off-the-cuff or unsuitable jokes might fail to land with the audience. Additionally, while the film portrays a character who aspires to be a clown, the cultural context of 2019 means that such aspirations might be seen as somewhat out of touch, making it difficult for viewers to fully engage with the character's motivations.

Criticism of the Direction and Potential for Fan Disappointment

The direction of the film, handled by Todd Phillips, is fraught with concerns. While his success with the Hangover franchise has contributed to some of this anxiety, the film's success largely hinges on the performances, with Joaquin Phoenix being the standout element. Critics argue that if a different actor had been chosen to play the Joker, the film would have garnered a more universally negative reception. The misgivings stem from the fact that as the film attempts to explore the origins of the Joker, it leaves out a significant part of the Batman-universe lore, which might disappoint fans of the character and the broader series. The absence of Batman in the film is a critical oversight, as his presence would have provided context that would have greatly enhanced the Joker's story.

Conclusion

The new Joker movie, while well-received in many aspects, faces significant challenges that may prevent it from fully satisfying the audience's expectations. From inconsistencies in action scenes to weak character development, pacing issues, and the absence of key elements like Batman, the film is likely to be divisive. For those who are eager to see a strong origin story, the film may fall short of the mark. However, the performances and direction, particularly those of Joaquin Phoenix, offer hope that the film will still resonate with viewers. A more polished and coherent narrative might have enhanced the overall experience.