In Joker (2019), the story begins with Arthur Fleck, a struggling comedian living in Gotham City. Battling poverty, ridicule, and fragile mental health, Arthur feels increasingly alienated from society. His daily life is marked by humiliation and invisibility, as he longs for recognition and connection in a city that seems determined to ignore him. With few support systems in place and limited access to treatment, Arthur's fragile stability begins to unravel. The film sets a stark stage that combines gritty realism with psychological tension, drawing audiences into Arthur's inner world and his struggle to find meaning in a hostile environment.
The theme of social isolation and untreated mental illness drives the narrative forward. Arthur's laughter, an uncontrollable condition tied to his neurological and psychological struggles, becomes a symbol of his alienation. The film portrays how neglect, lack of support, and stigma can deepen suffering and push vulnerable individuals toward dangerous paths. Rather than framing Arthur as simply a villain, the story highlights the tragic consequences of systemic failures in mental health care and social compassion. It asks viewers to confront uncomfortable questions about how society treats those who are most in need of empathy and understanding, showing how isolation can erode one's sense of identity and humanity.
By the end, Joker leaves audiences reflecting on the complex intersections of mental illness, poverty, and societal neglect. It challenges viewers to see beyond sensationalized portrayals of violence and consider the deeper story of alienation and unmet need. For more details you can explore the film's official page on IMDB.