I’ve been a Joker and Harley Quinn fan for years, but I honestly haven’t seen an actor’s portrayal of The Joker, other than Mark Hamill, that have genuinely resonated me until Jared Leto took on the role. Every way in which Leto approached the Joker was dedicated and well thought out and shows within the Suicide Squad film, including scenes that were cut from the film.
Jared Leto went deep to become Joker. Using his method acting he sent gifts and poems to his costars and using actor Jim Parrack, who plays his right hand man Jonny Frost to deliver them. Isolating himself from most the cast who were members of the squad except Harley Quinn, he did not rehearse, wanting his actions to be authentic and real to his character, nor did he go by his name during production but as “Mr. J”. There is no denying Jared Leto’s commitment to the role.
Every actor who has played The Joker before in live action has brought their own style in portraying him. Though The Joker has been played by various actors, they all looked hideous. The Joker is a brilliant mastermind with wealth, respect and support from other criminals; he can be charming and manipulative when he wishes. Physical appearance is known to prove successful, and the other actors who have played The Joker throughout the years have had makeup and design to look gruff, dirty, scarred, and frankly terrifying. While still remaining true to his character Jared Leto’s Joker is mad and has his dark propriety, as well as having physical distinctions of tattoos (brilliantly creative and beautifully designed), his bleached skin, and his metal grill teeth. His wardrobe in the film is fantastic and complimentary to the colors of his makeup design and his body.
Personal opinion of the makeup design liked or not, Jared Leto is a handsome man, and his bone structure and physique are shown with his makeup and clothing. Looking eccentric and crazy, he’s physically strong, dressed in expensive clothing, and has an energy that draws both characters and audiences to him. This makes it easier to understand how aside from his brilliant and manipulative mind Joker can manipulate people to his desire. In the film and in the comics, there is a sexual relationship between The Joker and Harley Quinn. He did seduce her, and she did become obsessed, infatuated, and in love with him. She’s attracted to his mind, his confidence, and is very physical in her affection towards him. Jared Leto’s appearance does help make it believable that a mad dangerous criminal could seduce a young beautiful clinical psychiatrist like Harleen Quinzel.
Jared Leto has given us a new Joker. Never has The Joker been physically attractive, and never has an actor gone so far to become The Joker. Leto’s commitment, dedication, and new approach to the character has given audiences a Joker that has never been seen on screen. It’s a memorable portrayal that I personally think should be held as one of the best. Jared Leto’s Joker is without a doubt my favorite portrayal of the character.
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