OVERLAY REPORT

In the 2019 film *Joker*, the title is significant as both a literal name adopted by the protagonist and a symbolic representation of his psychological shift from a "tragic" individual to a "comedic" agent of chaos. While the film serves as an origin story for the iconic DC villain, the name "Joker" is not a pre-existing alias but is born out of societal mockery. ### 1. Literal Significance and Direct References Unlike many iterations of the character where the name is self-chosen or accidental, the name in this film is directly bestowed upon Arthur Fleck by his idol, late-night host **Murray Franklin**. * **Murray Franklin's Mockery:** Earlier in the film, Murray plays a clip of Arthur's failed stand-up routine on his show. He mocks Arthur's performance, specifically calling him a **"joker"** to get a laugh from the audience. This act of public humiliation is a turning point for Arthur's mental state. * **Arthur's Request:** When Arthur is eventually invited onto the show, he meets Murray backstage. In a pivotal moment of reclaiming his identity, Arthur specifically requests: ***"Murray, one small thing... When you bring me out, can you introduce me as Joker?"*** * **The Introduction:** Murray agrees, and during the live broadcast, he introduces him to the audience: ***"So, please welcome... Joker."*** * **News Reports:** Following the climactic shooting of Murray Franklin, a news anchor is heard reporting on the event, referring to Arthur as ***"the man, who was introduced by Franklin as 'Joker'."*** ### 2. Thematic Significance: Tragedy vs. Comedy The title reflects the core philosophy Arthur adopts as his life falls apart. For most of the film, Arthur is told by his mother that his purpose is to "put on a happy face" and "bring laughter and joy to the world." However, he feels his life is a constant tragedy. * **The Shift in Perspective:** Toward the end of the film, Arthur abandons his attempt to fit into society's definition of "normal" or "happy." He famously tells the psychiatrist at the end, ***"I used to think that my life was a tragedy, but now I realize, it's a comedy."*** * **The "Private Joke":** The title "Joker" signifies that Arthur has finally found something he thinks is funny—the chaos and nihilism of the world. In the final scene at Arkham State Hospital, he laughs at a "joke" (the murder of Thomas and Martha Wayne, which he indirectly caused) that he refuses to tell his psychiatrist, saying, ***"You wouldn't get it."*** ### 3. Symbolic Significance: The Mask of the Everyman While Arthur adopts the name "Joker" personally, the film's plot uses the title to represent a broader social movement. * **The Clown Persona:** After Arthur kills three wealthy businessmen on a subway while dressed as a clown, the media and Thomas Wayne label the killer as a "clown." This sparks a "Kill the Rich" movement where protesters wear clown masks. * **Loss of Identity:** By the end of the film, "Arthur Fleck" has essentially ceased to exist. He has been entirely consumed by the **Joker** persona—a symbol that belongs to the rioting public more than to himself. The title signifies the moment an invisible man becomes an unavoidable, albeit distorted, icon. (Note: This summary was generated by Gemini 3.0 Flash + Search)