Joker (2019 Todd Phillips & co-scr)

I must admit to feeling somewhat nonplussed by Joker, which is much more complex than a DC origin story. It appears to be about mental health and holds a mirror up to contemporary society, maybe about movements such as Extinction Rebellion. Has a whiff of The King of Comedy to it too, reinforced by de Niro's presence. It's good, but I didn't love it.

Joaquin Phoenix gives a great and physical performance. I was underwhelmed by Huldur Guonodottir's Oscar winning music, Phillips was nominated as director and writer (with Scott Silver), as was Laurence Sher's photography.

Phillips known for Hangover movies and Due Date.

My favourite moment was Leigh Gill being unable to reach the door chain. Felt more of that would have helped lift it out of its dystopian mire. Production design by Mark Friedberg.

With Zazie Beets, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen.

I was glad for the (presumably affectionate) Blow Out reference as it helped to clarify the time period, and that we are in a recognisably real world.