The People’s Joker follows a trans woman comedian in Gotham City, battling societal norms and a fascist Batman.
A unique film blending identity, comedy, and critique within Gotham’s twisted landscape. Directed by Vera Drew, who also stars as the main character, it parodies the superhero genre, especially the Joker.
Plot Overview
The story begins with a young girl in Smallville, Kansas. She dreams of being a comedian and struggles with her gender identity. Inspired by Nicole Kidman in Batman Forever, she realizes she wants to transition into a girl. But this revelation leads to her being sent to Arkham Asylum. There, she is given Smylex, a drug that forces users to smile despite their inner pain. This early trauma shapes her elaborate relationship with identity and society.
As an adult, she moves to Gotham City to chase her comedy dreams. But in this dystopian Gotham, comedy is illegal, and Batman rules with an iron fist. She tries to join the United Clown Brigade (UCB Live), a government-funded sketch show, but can’t afford the fee. She teams up with Oswald Cobblepot, another struggling comedian, to form their own anti-comedy troupe in an abandoned warehouse. This act of rebellion sets the tone for the film’s exploration of creativity and resistance.
In the warehouse, she meets Mister J, a trans man comedian. Their relationship is marked by mutual support and affection. Mister J helps her embrace her identity as a trans woman. Together, they create “Joker the Harlequin”, a character embodying both the chaos of the Joker and the struggles of trans identity. Their relationship is elaborate and toxic, reflecting real-life challenges within the trans community.
Themes and Character Development
The People’s Joker is rich in themes that resonate deeply with contemporary audiences. At its core, the film is a coming-of-age story tackling issues of gender identity, societal acceptance, and the quest for self-expression. The protagonist’s journey from a confused child to a confident performer mirrors the experiences of many within the LGBTQ+ community.
The film also critiques the superhero genre and its often rigid moral dichotomies. By presenting a Joker who is not merely a villain but a elaborate character navigating her own struggles, Drew challenges traditional notions of great and evil. Batman, portrayed as a totalitarian figure, complicates the narrative, suggesting that the true enemy may be the oppressive systems that seek to control and silence marginalized voices.
Visually, the film employs a chaotic and eclectic style, using various animation techniques and shifting aesthetics. This reflects the protagonist’s tumultuous emotional state. The style is described as “whiplash-inducing”, yet it enhances the storytelling rather than detracts from it (1).
Cultural Significance
The People’s Joker is notable not only for its narrative but also for its cultural significance. Vera Drew’s portrayal of the Joker marks a historic moment in film, as she becomes the first out trans actor to take on this iconic role. This representation is crucial in a landscape where trans narratives are often sidelined or misrepresented. The film’s success at festivals and its perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes reflect a growing appreciation for diverse storytelling in cinema (2).
The film’s journey to the screen has been fraught with challenges, including disqualification from the Toronto International Film Festival due to copyright issues. Despite these setbacks, Drew’s vision has resonated with audiences, proving that transformative parody can be a powerful vehicle for social commentary (3).
Summary
The People’s Joker is a multifaceted film that transcends traditional superhero narratives. Through its exploration of identity, societal critique, and the elaborateities of human relationships, it offers a fresh perspective on the Joker mythos. Vera Drew’s unique storytelling, combined with her personal experiences, creates a film that is both hilarious and challenging. As it prepares for its theatrical release, The People’s Joker is poised to challenge audiences’ perceptions of gender, comedy, and the very nature of heroism in a world that often seeks to silence those who dare to be different.