As a lifelong DC fan and comic book enthusiast, I must say that the recent release of “Joker: Folie ? Deux” has been an exhilarating journey through the twisted mind of one of comics’ most iconic villains. The film’s unique blend of courtroom drama, musical numbers, and dark themes is a testament to the versatility of Arthur Fleck/Joker’s character.
Over the past weekend, the live-action movie “Joker: Madness Duet” made its theatrical premiere, serving as an unexpected and contentious follow-up to Warner Bros.’ 2019 blockbuster “Joker.” This film skillfully combines aspects of courtroom dramas and crime with musical performances to carry on the tale of Arthur Fleck / Joker (played by Joaquin Phoenix) and his influence on Gotham City. Despite both Joker films generating buzz for their innovative take on DC Comics’ lore, there are numerous titles from the publisher’s extensive history that share common themes with these movies. These span from standalone stories about the Joker, to memorable scenes from other characters’ series where he played a significant role.
The Joker (1975)
The “Joker” films aren’t the first instance where DC Comics has taken advantage of the villain’s fame – back in 1975, he made a groundbreaking debut as the publisher’s inaugural villain to have his own standalone comic book. This initial nine-issue series followed the Clown Prince of Crime on a cross-country spree, where he committed various crimes, evaded capture, and encountered characters like Lex Luthor, The Creeper, and Black Canary. A tenth issue, featuring the Joker seemingly eliminating most of the Justice League, was withheld from publication until 2019.
In contrast to the dark tone of the Joker movies, the initial Joker comic maintains an overall brighter mood, yet it subtly conceals an eerie and unnerving darkness beneath its exterior.
“A Death in the Family”
“The influential status of ‘A Death in the Family’ within Batman’s history can be attributed to several factors, but the demise of Jason Todd and the reader-driven decision regarding his fate stands out prominently. Additionally, the storyline from Batman issues #426-429 offers an outstanding and chilling portrayal of The Joker, reaching its climax with him viciously attacking Jason using a crowbar.
In an innovative twist, this story’s plotline is iconic enough to delve into a different reality where the character Jason experiences a reversal of fortune. It’s the perfect mix of grisly and fantastical that the movie “Folie à Deux” aims to bring to life on the cinema screen.
Arkham Asylum: A Serious House on Serious Earth
The 1989 graphic novel “Arkham Asylum: A Serious House on Serious Earth” is primarily recognized for its significant impact on the broader Batman universe, spawning the popular “Arkham” video game series. Notably, the narrative of Batman’s grim journey through an Arkham Asylum uprising is iconic for a reason, particularly for its thought-provoking and insightful portrayal of The Joker.
Should you have departed from “Folie à Deux” yearning to delve deeper into its main setting, there could hardly be a superior spot to commence your exploration.
“Going Sane”
1994 saw the publication of “Going Sane” in the comic series “Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight”. This story presents The Joker in an unconventional manner similar to contemporary films. In this narrative, we find The Joker seemingly retiring from his criminal activities, having allegedly killed Batman and decided to live as a civilian.
The storyline of “Going Sane” bears a striking resemblance to Arthur’s transformation in the Joker films, and there are some intriguingly designed plot elements that go beyond this similarity.
Joker (2008)
2008’s “Joker” graphic novel, from DC Comics, has achieved widespread acclaim and frequent reprints throughout the 21st century. It was among the first titles in DC’s new Compact Comics series. The novel’s popularity, whether viewed as a standalone story or as a precursor to “Batman: Damned,” is not undeserved.
The 128-page study offers a grim exploration of what makes The Joker relevant in today’s times, and it seems to have left an indelible impact on the themes portrayed in Todd Phillips’ “Joker” films.
Knight Terrors: The Joker
Eventually, an unusual interpretation of The Joker’s influence emerged during the 2023 Knight Terrors event, featuring a two-issue storyline centered on the character. In this contemporary reimagining, the antagonist’s worst fear becomes enduring a monotonous office job, an idea that is creatively portrayed in some chilling and entertaining ways.
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Joker: Folie ? Deux is now playing exclusively in theaters.
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2024-10-08 07:10