Joker, one of the most iconic villains in the Batman universe, has been portrayed by various actors in different films over the years. To watch the Joker movies in order, you should start with Batman: The Movie (1966), where Cesar Romero brought the character to life for the first time. After that, you can catch up with Jack Nicholson’s unforgettable performance in Batman (1989) and Heath Ledger’s Oscar-winning role in The Dark Knight (2008).
In addition to the classics, Jared Leto took on the role in Suicide Squad (2016), followed by Joaquin Phoenix’s critically acclaimed portrayal in Joker (2019). Joaquin Phoenix will reprise his role in the upcoming Joker: Folie à Deux, hitting cinemas on October 4, 2024. Each of these portrayals offers a unique take on the character, making it exciting to see how the Joker evolves in each film.
Origins of the Joker Character
The Joker is one of Batman’s most iconic villains. His origins have been told in many ways over the years. Here’s a look at some of the most known stories.
- The Red Hood One of the earliest stories suggests that Joker was a small-time criminal. He fell into a vat of chemicals while fighting Batman. This chemical bath turned his skin white, his hair green, and drove him insane.
- The Killing Joke In The Killing Joke, Joker was originally a failed comedian. He turned to crime to support his family. A heist at a chemical plant went wrong, and he fell into a vat of chemicals, similar to the Red Hood story. This event drove him mad.
- Tim Burton’s Batman (1989) In Tim Burton’s Batman, Joker started as Jack Napier, a mobster. During a fight with Batman, he fell into chemicals. The chemicals disfigured him, giving him a permanent grin. This version of Joker has a deep connection to Bruce Wayne’s past.
- Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight In The Dark Knight, Joker’s past is more mysterious. He gives conflicting stories about how he got his scars. Each story hints at a tragic past involving his family.
- Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker (2019) In the 2019 film Joker, Arthur Fleck is portrayed as a failed comedian with mental health issues. The movie shows his descent into madness, leading him to become Joker. This version focuses more on his mental state and society’s role.
These various origin stories show how complicated and mysterious the Joker can be. They offer different takes on what made him one of Gotham’s most feared criminals.
John Wick Movies In Release Order
| S.no | Movies | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cesar Romero – Batman | July 30, 1966 |
| 2 | Jack Nicholson – Batman | June 23, 1989 |
| 3 | Heath Ledger – The Dark Knight | October 10, 2008 |
| 4 | Suicide Squad | August 5, 2016 |
| 5 | Joker | October 4, 2019 |
| 6 | Birds of Prey | February 7, 2020 |
| 7 | Zack Snyder’s Justice League | March 18, 2021 |
| 8 | The Batman | March 4, 2022 |
| 9 | Joker: Folie á Deux | October 4, 2024 |
Joker Movies in Order with Appearances
The Joker has been portrayed by various actors in a number of movies over the years. Each actor has brought a unique twist to the character, making each portrayal memorable.
1. Cesar Romero – Batman (1966)
Cesar Romero was the first actor to bring the Joker to the big screen. His portrayal in the 1966 movie “Batman” was colorful and campy, fitting the tone of the TV series it was based on. Romero’s Joker had a mischievous smile and a maniacal laugh that became iconic. He refused to shave his mustache for the role, making it visible under the white makeup. Fans remember his energetic and lively performance, which set the foundation for future portrayals.
IMDb Rating 7.5/10
2. Jack Nicholson – Batman (1989)
Jack Nicholson’s Joker in the 1989 film “Batman” redefined the character for a more modern audience. This version was darker and more violent. His portrayal combined criminal insanity with a twisted sense of humor. Nicholson’s Joker is a mobster who falls into a vat of chemicals, giving him his signature smile. His performance brought depth and complexity, making him a standout villain in cinema history. This movie also featured memorable quotes and scenes that have left a lasting impact.
IMDb Rating 7.5/10
3. Heath Ledger – The Dark Knight (2008)
Heath Ledger’s performance in “The Dark Knight” is often considered the most intense and realistic depiction of the Joker. Ledger’s Joker is chaotic, unpredictable, and deeply disturbing. He wears messy, smeared makeup and has a chilling calmness. Ledger’s method acting brought an eerie authenticity to the role, earning him a posthumous Academy Award. His Joker is memorable for his philosophical monologues and impactful presence. This portrayal highlights the Joker’s love for creating chaos and anarchy.
IMDb Rating 9.0/10
4. Suicide Squad (2016) – Jared Leto
Jared Leto’s Joker in “Suicide Squad” brought a new era of madness. This Joker is a crime boss with a modern, flashy style. Leto’s portrayal included tattoos, grills, and a more gangster-like appearance. His performance was divisive among fans and critics, with some praising the fresh take and others criticizing the over-the-top elements. Leto’s Joker is deeply connected to Harley Quinn, their twisted relationship being a central plot point.
IMDb Rating 5.9/10
5. Joker (2019) – Joaquin Phoenix
Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal in “Joker” is a gritty and realistic take on the character’s origin. The movie shows Arthur Fleck’s descent into madness and his transformation into the Joker. Phoenix’s performance is haunting and emotional, exploring themes of mental illness and societal neglect. He brings vulnerability and depth to the character, making this Joker both sympathetic and terrifying. This film stands alone, separate from other Batman universes, and has received high praise for its powerful storytelling and acting.
IMDb Rating 8.4/10
6. Birds of Prey (2020) – Jared Leto
Though Jared Leto’s Joker does not have a significant on-screen presence in “Birds of Prey,” his influence is felt throughout the film. The story focuses on Harley Quinn after her breakup with Joker. Flashbacks and mentions of the Joker provide context for Harley’s motivations and actions. This appearance is brief but adds continuity to Leto’s previous portrayal in “Suicide Squad.” The film delves into Harley’s journey of self-discovery and independence from Joker’s shadow.
IMDb Rating 6.1/10
7. Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021) – Jared Leto
Jared Leto reprised his role as the Joker in a short but memorable scene in “Zack Snyder’s Justice League.” This scene, set in a post-apocalyptic future, shows a dialogue between Joker and Batman. Leto’s Joker appears more subdued and reflective, different from his earlier portrayal. The interaction adds depth to his character and hints at a complicated history with Batman. This appearance, though brief, was significant for fans of both characters.
IMDb Rating 7.9/10
8. The Batman (2022) – Barry Keoghan
Barry Keoghan’s Joker briefly appears in “The Batman,” hinting at future storylines. His portrayal is mysterious and leaves much to the imagination. Appearing in a prison scene, he talks with the Riddler, suggesting a possible team-up. Keoghan’s Joker has a disfigured face and a sinister demeanor. This brief appearance sets the stage for a potentially larger role in upcoming movies. His Joker promises to bring a fresh and chilling take on the character.
IMDb Rating 7.8/10
9. Joker: Folie á Deux (2024) – Joaquin Phoenix
“Joker: Folie á Deux” will see Joaquin Phoenix returning as Arthur Fleck. This sequel aims to continue exploring the Joker’s psyche and his chaotic influence on Gotham City. The title hints at a shared madness, possibly introducing new characters. Phoenix’s powerful performance is expected to delve deeper into the complexities of the Joker. Anticipation is high for this film, as it seeks to build on the success of the 2019 “Joker” movie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a particular order to watch the John Wick movies for better understanding?
Yes, it is best to watch the John Wick movies in their release order. Start with the first movie, John Wick (2014), followed by John Wick: Chapter 2 (2017), John Wick: Chapter 3 — Parabellum (2019), and then John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023). This sequence ensures you follow the story correctly.
When is the release date for John Wick 4?
John Wick: Chapter 4 was released in 2023. This installment continues the saga of John Wick, offering fans more intense action and depth to the story.
Will there be a continuation of the John Wick series after the fourth movie?
There are plans for more content in the John Wick universe. While there are no announcements for a direct sequel right now, a spin-off series titled, The Continental, is being developed. This series will explore more about the world of assassins featured in the movies.
Is the storyline of the John Wick movies inspired by real events?
No, the storyline of the John Wick movies is not based on real events. The plot is entirely fictional and was created by screenwriter Derek Kolstad. The movies mix unique characters with thrilling action sequences, woven into an imaginative and engaging world.