The Psychology of the ‘Joker’: Why Arthur Fleck Resonated with Audiences

‘Joker’ (2019) generated debate, controversy, and praise from critics when it debuted in theatres.  Arthur Fleck, a failed comic, a reclusive recluse, and ultimately a symbol of anarchy, was at the centre of it all.  Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of Arthur’s spiral into insanity was not only unsettling but also uncannily realistic.  However, why did viewers find this portrayal so powerful?

 Arthur embodies an increasing sense of alienation in contemporary life. He struggles with poverty, mental illness, and a system that keeps failing him while he lives in a collapsing Gotham City. A fundamental human need that frequently goes unfulfilled in our fast-paced, disconnected world is reflected in the need to be seen, heard, and loved. The movie challenges us to comprehend Arthur’s motivations, but it doesn’t require us to approve of his behaviour.

In terms of psychology, Arthur’s metamorphosis is consistent with the idea of “social defeat”—the ongoing feeling of exclusion, humiliation, or rejection.  The distinction between reality and fantasy becomes more hazy as he loses access to counselling, medicine, and any sense of security.  He loses his identity, and the Joker emerges.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

 Phoenix’s portrayal also highlights the villain’s agonising weakness.  Involuntary, unsettling, and originating from a real-life neurological illness, Arthur’s famed chuckle comes to represent his inner turmoil.  Not only are we seeing a man becoming a monster, but we are also seeing the results of abuse, neglect, and structural failure.

Viewers of ‘Joker’ are forced to face difficult realities regarding mental health, society, and how simple it is for someone to get lost.  The darker aspects of the human experience, such as the craving for connection, the hurt of rejection, and the scary power of being invisible for an extended period of time, are reflected in Arthur Fleck, which is why he strikes a chord with people.

–Farheen Ali