Joker

Saturday night, Sharon and I watched Joker on the AppleTV. This is part of our continuing effort to see all of the Oscar nominated films. The film earned the most nominations (11) at the 92nd Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Director.

The movie stars Joaquin Phoenix as the Joker. It provides an origin story for the DC character. Set in 1981, it follows Arthur Fleck as a failed stand-up comedian whose descent into insanity inspires a violent counter-cultural revolution against the wealthy in a decaying Gotham City. I was surprised to see Robert De Niro in a supporting role.

Given some of the backlash against the movie, Sharon and I were a little hesitant to watch it; we have put off watching it. About halfway through, Sharon said "he deserves the Oscar." Although R-Rated for its violence, it is more about mental illness than violence. While I don't recommend the movie, Phoenix's performance is captivating and worth seeing. I would bet that he takes home the Best Actor Oscar.