Netflix: Just a few days left for this movie that takes a little too much inspiration from Martin Scorsese

Playing the Joker is an opportunity for any actor. Some work wonders – first Jack Nicholson, then Heath Ledger – and others break – Jared Leto, not to mention him. When Todd Phillips, known for, among other things, the Hangover movies, was announced to be portraying the character in the film, many feared the worst. But in his hands and in the hands of Joaquin Phoenix, this dark and desperate thriller is instantly loved by critics and audiences alike.

Despite its arthouse film appearance, Joker remains a blockbuster – certainly more sober than usual – offered by Warner Studios, which, let’s not assume too much, fits the Batman universe. The film cost 55 million dollars and will earn more than a billion. This is the first time that an R-rated feature film, which is restricted to under 17s in America, has achieved such figures.

Joaquin Phoenix’s interpretation won him an Oscar for best actor and the enthusiasm is such that a sequel is expected in October 2024 with Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn – performed at this stage. The Joker’s only downside is his not-so-subtle inspiration from Martin Scorsese’s movies. It suggests and at the same time is so strong that a certain lack of originality can be noted.

From a taxi driver to a raging bull, the Joker has completely immersed himself in these references. It borrows largely from La Valse des pantins, which was a big hit at the box office upon its release in 1982 and failed to impress critics. Long considered a minor film by its director, it is now considered one of the classics.

On closer inspection, Joker is a remake of La Valse des pantins. The character of Arthur, the future Joker, played by Joaquin Phoenix, has a lot in common with Rupert, played by Robert De Niro: both are obscure actors with complex personalities – to say the least – they live with their mother and appear on television. A show with a host they admire—until things get out of hand.

Robert De Niro himself admits that these two films are very similar. He even goes so far as to say, Shi Interview for IndieWirethat his character Murray in Joker could be an older version of him as Rupert in Waltz of the Dolls.

The list of similarities between the two thrillers is long. In its review of the film, Esquire magazine wrote:Todd Phillips’ Joker monopolizes all of the artistry of Martin Scorsese’s films without the soul.Still, there’s a reason The Joker riffs so much on the filmmaker’s style: The latter had to direct the film.

Warner Studios made the offer to Martin Scorsese, who took four years to look into the matter before finally turning it down. Still at IndieWireHe explains that he was not “He is sure that he can develop the story of the character from the comics“. Nevertheless, he admits that he will find results.”outstandingAnd, imagine, very flattering.

The Joker leaves Netflix on December 22nd.