Firstly, I really like both movies. And I really like the fact that two movies have villains as their titular characters. It’s an atypical movie stylistic choice, but it’s worked in both cases.
Why They Work
Both films feature fantastic performances by their lead actors—Joaquin Phoenix (Joker) and Tom Rhys Harries (Clayface). Both leads similarly make you empathize with them, despite their fatal character flaws.
Additionally, both films are grounded (Joker even more so), and resonate because they tackle themes that are all too familiar, and oftentimes unsettling.
Clayface deftly tackles vanity, insecurity, obsessive behavior and toxic love. Joker effectively tackles mental illness and a myriad of maladies associated with its mishandling by society, and more.
Last, but not least, both films ultimately play as unforgivingly violent revenge films—where the “real bad guys and gals” are doled out punishment at the hands of our titular “villains.”
Who Wins?
When it’s all said and done, I give the slight edge to Joker, on the back of the Oscar-winning, transcendent performance by Joaquin Phoenix in the titular role.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t shoutout Tom Rhys Harries, who is marvelous as Clayface. This performance will hopefully boost his American cinematic career.
And to those who celebrate, Happy Halloween!! 🎃
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