Joker

THE GIST: Arthur Fleck is a down on his luck clown with mental issues, who's disregarded and mistreated by society and virtually anyone he encounters. His downward spiral accelerates with each passing setback, until he decides he's had enough and embraces his darker side.

Expertly directed by Todd Phillips, Joker is not your average comic book adaptation; in fact, I'd venture to say it could be about any regular guy who ends up snapping and going on a rampage. The only difference is that this particular guy ends up becoming the Joker.

Of note is the fantastically dark and somber score, which earned Hildur Guðnadóttir an Oscar for Best Original Score, the first ever won by a woman on her own in the category.

The cinematography is also phenomenal, perfectly blending darkness and moodiness with the bright colors that populate the life of a clown and the style of the Joker.

Joaquin Phoenix rightfully earned a Best Lead Actor Oscar for his superb portrayal (I wonder if the character of the Joker is only the second to ever earn Oscars for two different actors, Heath Ledger for Supporting Actor in The Dark Knight and now Phoenix -- the other being Vito Corleone for Marlon Brando in The Godfather and Robert De Niro in The Godfather: Part II). Excellent work from Robert De Niro, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, and Glenn Fleshler as well.

THE BOTTOM LINE: Arguably the best origin story to date, this movie is for everyone, not just comic book aficionados. Awesome direction, a great script, great acting. A well deserved Best Picture Oscar nomination.

Grade: 9