Is The Joker Based on a True Story? Joker Release Date, Cast, Plot, Summary, Where to Watch, and Trailer
by B Kishwar
Updated Jan 06, 2024
Is The Joker Based on a True Story?
The events in the Joker movie are not true. The character Joker in Todd Phillips' movie is inspired by a true story, particularly the events surrounding Bernhard Goetz, known as the "Subway Vigilante." In 1984, Goetz, facing harassment on the subway, shot four men who attempted to mug him.
This real-life incident is explored in an episode of the Netflix docuseries "Trial By Media." Phillips, a native New Yorker, drew from this story for Joker's subway scene, where Joaquin Phoenix's character, Arthur Fleck, faces aggression and responds with violence.
While the film takes creative liberties, altering details like the attackers' race, it captures the societal tensions and alienation mirrored in Goetz's case. Thus, while not a direct adaptation, Joker's narrative is rooted in the unsettling reality of the "Subway Vigilante" events.
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The Joker Release Date
Joker made its world debut at the 76th Venice International Film Festival on August 31, 2019, earning accolades with an eight-minute standing ovation and winning the Golden Lion award. Subsequently, it was showcased at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 9, 2019.
The film, released by Warner Bros. Pictures, hit theaters in the United States on October 4, 2019, and a day earlier in Australia and various international markets. Noteworthy was a screening at the White House for President Donald Trump on November 16, 2019. Some theaters adhered to the director's original intention, presenting the movie on 70mm film. Following award nominations, a North American re-release commenced on January 17, 2020.
The Joker Cast
Joaquin Phoenix
Arthur Fleck / Joker
Robert De Niro
Murray Franklin
Zazie Beetz
Sophie Dumond
Frances Conroy
Penny Fleck
Brett Cullen
Thomas Wayne
Carrie Louise Putrello
Martha Wayne
Douglas Hodge
Alfred Pennyworth
Dante Pereira-Olson
Bruce Wayne
Glenn Fleshler and Leigh Gill
Randall and Gary
Bill Camp and Shea Whigham
Detectives Garrity and Burke
Marc Maron
Gene Ufland
Sharon Washington
Arthur's Social Worker
Josh Pais
Hoyt Vaughn
Brian Tyree Henry
Clark
Ben Warheit, Michael Benz, Carl Lundstedt
Bankers
Gary Gulman and Sam Morril
Comedians at Open Mic
Bryan Callen
Javier
Justin Theroux
Ethan Chase (uncredited cameo)
Actor
Character
The Joker Plot
"Joker" follows Arthur Fleck, a struggling clown and comedian in Gotham City during the 1980s. Afflicted by a neurological disorder and facing societal neglect, Arthur descends into chaos. After shooting assailants on the subway, he becomes a symbol for social unrest.
Discovering a painful family truth, Arthur embraces the Joker persona, leading to a violent appearance on a talk show, triggering citywide riots. The chaos results in the death of Thomas Wayne, sparing young Bruce. The film concludes with the anarchic Joker leaving a bloodied trail at Arkham, hinting at the unpredictable legacy he leaves behind.
The Joker Summary
"Joker," released in 2019 and rated R, follows failed comedian Arthur Fleck's transformation into the iconic villain in crime-ridden Gotham City. Disregarded by society, Fleck embraces chaos as the Joker. TV Guide provides a Metascore of 59, a 2-hour 2-minute runtime, and categorizes it as Drama, Suspense, Action & Adventure.
The synopsis details Fleck's journey to infamy and TV Guide offers streaming options. Noteworthy nominations, the talented cast including Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, and Zazie Beetz, trailers, and news enrich the viewing experience. TV Guide stands as a reliable resource, ensuring audiences stay updated on the gripping tale of the Joker.
The Joker Where to Watch?
Users can visit a platform offering a user-friendly interface for discovering and tracking movies and TV shows. The film, directed by Todd Phillips, is available for streaming on Jio Cinema in India. Additionally, users have the option to rent or buy "Joker" on various platforms, including Netflix, Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Hungama Play, and Tata Play.
These platforms users informed about the latest streaming options and pricing details, making it a comprehensive guide for those looking to access "Joker" through different online services.
The Joker Trailer
Is The Joker Based On A True Story? - FAQs
While the film is fictional, it draws inspiration from the real-life events surrounding Bernhard Goetz, the "Subway Vigilante."
The memorable subway scene mirrors the true story of Bernhard Goetz, reflecting the character Arthur Fleck's transformation into Gotham's own vigilante.
"Joker" premiered on August 31, 2019, at the Venice International Film Festival, receiving an eight-minute standing ovation and winning the Golden Lion award.
"Joker" is available for streaming on Jio Cinema in India and can be rented or purchased on platforms like Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Hungama Play, and Tata Play.
"Joker" has a Metascore of 59, featuring an ensemble cast led by Joaquin Phoenix as Arthur Fleck, Robert De Niro as Murray Franklin, and Zazie Beetz as Sophie Dumond.