Richard Dahlgren

If this was a movie about a sad depressed semi-psycho that became a killer - it would be great. But as a movie about The Joker it fails. The Joker should be born of madness and sordid humor. In this movie, the Joker is born when he “murders” in what looks like self defense. He only turns part psycho and part crybaby. Phoenix is an amazing actor who portrayed a very grim, dark, loser who found fondness in killing - and did it magnificently. However, the Fleck in the film isn’t even close to being a genius criminal mastermind murderer/hoard leader. The Joker in the movie turns out to be a punny hack with a six shooter. Lower your expectations for the back story of the Joker and enjoy a wonderfully dark movie about a wannabe killer.