Before delving into a review of The People’s Joker, it’s crucial to acknowledge the tumultuous journey that led to its cinematic debut in the UK and Ireland. This unique film first premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2022, but subsequent screenings were halted due to "rights issues" involving DC Comics and Warner Bros. Despite these legal challenges, the film’s creator, Vera Drew, remained steadfast in her determination to showcase what she affectionately dubbed the "illegal comic book movie." After a prolonged battle, the film triumphantly premiered at the Outfest Film Festival in Los Angeles in July 2023.
The UK debut took place at the Prince Charles Cinema in London’s West End on a memorable Saturday, accompanied by a virtual Q&A session with Drew herself. This event marked a significant milestone for this independent project that embodies the spirit of trash-chic cinema.
The Journey of The People’s Joker
The film’s narrative is inextricably linked with its production journey. Vera Drew, the visionary behind the film, has crafted a narrative set in the fictional Gotham City, where the protagonist, an aspiring comedian and closeted trans woman known as Joker the Harlequin (portrayed by Drew), ventures into the city’s seedy underbelly. In this dystopian universe, Batman has retired and has joined forces with authorities to ban comedy, except for the government-approved sketch show, UCB Live, which only men can participate in.
The film’s protagonist grapples with gender dysphoria from a young age, much to her mother’s dismay, leading to her commitment to Arkham Asylum. Here, she is subjected to Smylex, a fictional drug that forces users to wear a perpetual, contorted grin. As the story unfolds, the Joker embraces her gender identity and forms an "anti-comedy" crime group alongside her friend, Oswald Cobblepot.
An Indie Aesthetic with a Powerful Message
The People’s Joker is not a film for those expecting high-budget production and polished cinematography. It is an indie endeavor, brought to life by over 200 independent artists who contributed with little oversight, resulting in a wildly eclectic mix of visuals. Scenes fluidly transition from uneven green screens to digital animation and even stop-motion using DC action figures. The film’s "ugly-chic" aesthetic complements its narrative but may not appeal to everyone.
The film’s fractured sequences, akin to the way trans individuals often recall their childhoods, convey a deeper, underlying message. The screenplay, penned by Bri LeRose and Vera Drew, resonates deeply, reflecting their personal experiences as trans individuals and addressing complex themes like identity and societal expectations.
Embracing Complexity and Authenticity
The film tackles challenging topics, including drug use, abusive relationships, and grooming, within its compact runtime. The endearing performances by the cast enhance the film’s impact, with even the supporting characters leaving a lasting impression. Unlike other films about trans experiences, The People’s Joker delves deeper into trauma, focusing on the betrayal by trusted loved ones rather than external societal pressures.
Critics have noted that the film may resonate more with a specific subset of trans individuals, but its strength lies in its personal storytelling—speaking directly from Vera Drew’s perspective. The film recognizes that trans people are diverse and complex, challenging the notion of transness as inherently political or moral.
A Unique Cinematic Experience
Despite its unconventional presentation, the film’s humor shines through, delivering rapid-fire jokes that leave audiences in stitches. Its reliance on niche references may alienate some viewers, yet for those who understand, it adds an additional layer of engagement. However, pacing issues arise as the film attempts to juggle numerous themes within its 92-minute duration, leaving some story arcs underdeveloped.
Ultimately, The People’s Joker is a daring and profound cinematic experience, reminiscent of the work of trash-chic cinema pioneer John Waters. It’s a fever dream that invites audiences to explore the nuances of identity, wrapped in a wildly entertaining package.
For information on upcoming screenings and tickets for The People’s Joker, please stay tuned.
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