Joker Controversy: What is the Problem?

     Setting the scene for one of DC’s most infamous characters, the debut of the first solo Joker movie has been one of the most anticipated premiers of 2019. Though a majority of viewers are familiar with Joker’s nihilist mentality, many don’t know his back story; but through Todd Phillips’ Joker, the audience finally gets a visual look into the villain's history. But despite this film being based off a fictional character within a fictional world, many people believe that Joker is depicting a dangerous story that could lead to eventual violence. But where are these concerns stemming from, and should we be worried as well?     In 2012, a tragic mass shooting happened in Aurora, Colorado during a midnight screening of The Dark Knight Rises. Increasing security at movie theaters from that day forward, an amplification of protection was put into place for Joker screenings all over the nation. Victims of the shooting and locals from the town of Aurora have requested that the movie not be shown in their town, for the fear of trauma resurfacing and the risk of copycat crimes happening once again. Just as Joker is just a mentally ill white man finding solace in violence, many people believe his story may inspire a new group of people to follow in his footsteps.     Again, in light of the various mass shootings that have occurred in America within the past 5 years, many believe that the film is glorifying violence. Used as a source to cope with his harrowing childhood and unstable lifestyle, Arthur Fleck looks towards violence when his therapy sessions end. Depicted as a “Robin Hood” for the lower class, Joker’s use of violence is seen as an act of rebellion against a government that is not supporting him during a time in which he desperately needs it. The need for therapy and emotional support is prevalent and important within America today, and when individuals lack access to resources, such as Joker does, some may resort to dangerous alternatives to manage their mental difficulties. The sensitive obstacles in which Joker had to face are more common than one may think, and many go through the same troubles he had everyday.     Overall, the anxieties many individuals are feeling are completely understandable and valid; but there are many other forms of media besides Joker that ennobled violence. In television shows such as American Horror Story or films like the John Wick trilogy, various characters are depicted committing acts of clash and assault, but definitely weren’t put under the same amount of scrutiny Joker has been. Arthur Fleck’s abusive and traumatic childhood lead him towards a life of inhumanity that many see as demented; but in sharing stories like Fleck’s, it can give rise to situations like his that may need severe help. Though depicting opportune stories with happy endings allows for instant gratification, being able to share semi-realistic ones with not so fortunate conclusions cultivates conversations that may not have begun if it weren't for films such as Joker.