Unmasking the Real Heroes of Gotham

Read Time:4 Minute, 33 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The People's Joker
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Genre: Comedy
Year Released: 2022, 2024 Altered Innocence Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 32m
Director(s): Vera Drew
Writer(s): Vera Drew, Bri LeRose
Cast: Vera Drew, Lynn Downey, Kane Distler, Nathan Faustyn, David Liebe Hart, Phil Braun, Griffin Kramer, Christian Calloway, Trevor Drinkwater, Ruin Carroll, Tim Heidecker, Denali Winter, Bambi Belle, Ember Knight
Where To Watch: available August 13, 2024; pre-order your copy here www.alteredinnocence.net, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Striding through the dimly lit streets of Gotham, THE PEOPLE'S JOKER introduces a striking chapter in superhero storytelling. Helmed by the imaginative Vera Drew, who doubles as director, co-writer, and star, this film shatters conventional boundaries, blending animation with live-action to craft a narrative rich in personal and societal themes. Here, identity and acceptance take center stage, portraying a journey of self-discovery against societal resistance.

At the heart of THE PEOPLE'S JOKER, we meet Joker the Harlequin (Drew,) an ambitious comedian aspiring to redefine humor in Gotham’s tightly controlled comedic landscape. Born in the quiet town of Smallville, Joker battles against the shackles of societal norms, venturing into Gotham to find a voice and freedom. Drew stitches together a narrative of satire and drama, enveloping the viewer in a tale that resonates with authenticity and wit.

The movie's unique technique shines in its innovative use of multimedia. Transitioning effortlessly from rudimentary drawings to funfilled indie CGI, each visual progression mirrors Joker's evolving emotional and psychological states. This artistic choice keeps viewers glued to the screen and helps to elevate the storytelling, making THE PEOPLE'S JOKER a feast for the senses.

The cast supports the vivid narrative and brings additional depth to the unfolding story. In portraying Joker's mother, Lynn Downey delivers a poignant performance that captures the complex dynamics of a family grappling with identity issues. Nathan Faustyn, as Penguin, emerges as an essential ally, helping Joker navigate the treacherous waters of Gotham's comedy scene. Their bond underscores the film's underlying message about the power of community and understanding in the face of adversity.

THE PEOPLE'S JOKER isn’t without its imperfections. The storyline occasionally drifts, especially when shifting from the intimate struggles of its characters to broader societal critiques within Gotham's comedic realms. Yet these moments are fleeting and do little to diminish the film's overall impact. The film’s message rises above its indie production, leaning into its satirical underpinnings.

Drew's critique of the comedic elite is both bold and intelligent. UCB Live is depicted as an oppressive regime, mirroring real-life comedic institutions and their gatekeeping nature. The grotesque depiction of Lorne Michaels (Maria Bamford) is a sharp commentary on the toxicity that can permeate the entertainment industry, adding a layer of dark humor to the narrative.

Amidst its profound themes, THE PEOPLE'S JOKER maintains an effervescent tone. The script, crafted alongside Bri LeRose, is peppered with clever dialogue and timely humor, ensuring the film remains approachable and engaging for a varied audience.

THE PEOPLE'S JOKER is a beacon of indie cinematic bravery. It challenges entrenched narratives and characters from the comic book worlds, offering a fresh perspective on heroism and villainy. Spurred by a misreported cease-and-desist letter that captured the public's imagination, its release turned the film into something more than the combination of its parts, enhancing its allure and underscoring the importance of creative expression against odds.

In conclusion, THE PEOPLE'S JOKER is a powerful ode to storytelling. It blends personal narrative with social commentary, packaged in a visually stunning presentation that captivates and entertains. As the credits roll, the film leaves a lasting impression, urging viewers to rethink conventional narratives and embrace a broader view of the world.

Bonus Materials:
24-page Comic Book
Commentary Track with Director Vera Drew
Commentary Track with Director Vera Drew and Actor Nathan Faustyn
Commentary Track with Assorted Cast & Crew
A Discussion with Director Vera Drew and 'Corpses, Fools, and Monsters' authors Willow Catelyn Maclay and Caden Mark Gardner
Queebso TV
Behind-the-Scenes
Original Theatrical Trailer
Other Trailers
English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio
English SDH & Spanish Subtitles

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[photo courtesy of ALTERED INNOCENCE, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

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