Joker (2019 Film): 14 Interesting Facts You Might Not Know

The 2019 film Joker is notable for being the first film to focus solely on the origin story of a comic book villain. The film explores themes of mental illness, societal rejection, and the descent into madness, making it a compelling character study.

It’s an American psychological thriller directed and co-produced by Todd Phillips, who co-wrote the screenplay with Scott Silver. The film, loosely inspired by DC Comics characters, features Joaquin Phoenix as the Joker.

In the film (which plays off in 1981), Arthur Fleck (a struggling stand-up comedian and party clown) lives a life of poverty alongside his ill mother. When society rejects him and labels him as an outcast, he ultimately chooses to embrace a path of crime and disorder in Gotham City.

There’s probably a lot that you didn’t know about this film, but today my aim is to change that…

Here are 14 Interesting Facts you might not know about the 2019 film, Joker

1. Joaquin Phoenix found that perfecting Arthur Fleck’s laugh was the most challenging part of his transformation. The laugh is associated with a real condition called pathological laughter, which can be distressing and painful for those who suffer from it.

2. Phoenix lost 23 kilograms (52 pounds) for the role by adhering to a strict diet consisting of just an apple, lettuce, and steamed green beans each day. This extreme weight loss took a toll on both his physical and mental well-being, making even basic tasks like climbing stairs a challenge.

3. Many scenes in Joker were improvised, including one where Phoenix repeatedly punched a prop. This led to a reshoot to adjust the prop, making it easier to break.

4. Joker draws inspiration from multiple comic book sources, including a scene influenced by “The Dark Knight Returns,” where the Joker kisses a talk show host, resulting in deadly consequences.

5. Todd Phillips cited films such as Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, and The King of Comedy as key influences in crafting Joker. The movie echoes these classics, especially in its exploration of a deeply troubled protagonist.

6. The film features subtle references, like an ambulance designed to resemble the Joker’s smile, but Todd Phillips has mentioned that he does not intentionally include Easter eggs.

7. Arthur Fleck displays two contrasting personalities: the steady Arthur and the chaotic Joker. This duality is visually represented through his hand usage; he employs his right hand when he’s stable and his left hand when he’s losing control.

8. The score of Joker plays a crucial role in the film, with the music acting almost as a character, shaping the mood and tone throughout the story.

9. Todd Phillips sought to portray violence as a gradual build-up, in contrast to the more action-driven films. The violence in Joker is intended to feel both impactful and realistic.

10. Several prominent actors, such as Frances McDormand and Alec Baldwin, declined roles in the film, which ultimately influenced the final cast.

11. Phoenix’s intense method acting occasionally led to misunderstandings on set, leaving co-stars uncertain about his approach. Despite this, he maintained a respectful relationship with Robert De Niro, who had a major role in the film.

12. Arthur Fleck performs stand-up at ‘Pogo’s Comedy Club’ in Gotham. The name “Pogo the Clown” was the stage name of the real-life professional clown and serial killer John Wayne Gacy.

13. The premiere of the film at the Venice Film Festival drew an eight-minute standing ovation.

14. The film was the first R-rated movie in history to make $1 billion worldwide. Costing $55 million, this is the least expensive film to gross over $1 billion worldwide.

15. The sequel to the film will be released on the 4th of October 2024. It’s entitled Joker: Folie à Deux.

Well, there you have it, 14 interesting facts you might not have known about the 2019 Film, Joker. If I’ve left out something important, feel free to comment below.

Check out the trailer for the film below:

Watch this space for updates in the Movies category on Running Wolf’s Rant.