The Joker movie: the representation of self based on hegemony theory

Abstract This research paper sets out to discuss the identity formation and self-presentation of the main character, Arthur, in the Joker film (2019), while focusing on psychological and sociopolitical elements comprising the mental capacity of Arthur (henceforth, the Joker), his social upbringing and childhood trauma, and the corrupt superstructure (i.e., ruling class). The research explores the aforementioned mechanisms that actively participate in the social identity formation of the Joker, starting from his socially unjustified mental illness that affected base structures (i.e., large masses) awareness to ruling class hegemony to glorifying the joker’s personality as a public hero despite the horrendous crimes he committed. In effect, they patronize him as a symbol of resistance and against capitalist discourses and ruling class corruption while disregarding his horrible actions. This research examines the transformation of the Joker’s identity from a comedian to a murderer, showing the norms or matrix of society that helped in the transformation of Joker’s identity ideologically and psychologically. The researcher uses a content analysis of certain scenes depicting the Joker as a hero or a criminal in society.