Book Review: "Joker" (graphic novel)

The Joker is arguably a more interesting character than Batman. The graphic novel Joker, written by Brian Azzarello and illustrated by Lee Bermejo, focuses on the Clown Prince of Crime through the eyes and narration of his enthusiastic (but green) henchman Jonny Frost.

Set in a dark and bleak Gotham City (yes, even more so than the one you know), Joker leaves Arkham Asyllum and wants to take back control of his city. Blood is certainly shed and laughs are had, even if only by Joker.

It took a while for me to warm up to the style of artwork--with its sharp edges, extreme texture, muted color palette, and blend of painted realism; but when you read the story, Bermejo's artwork really conveys the emotion and impact that Azzarello intended.

It's not a story for weak stomachs, its gruesome violence startles the reader in extreme Joker fashion. The part where the strip club owner's skin is ripped off was a bit over the top for me, but when Joker casually robs a bank and comes back with a blood-marked photo of the bank president's daughter and then tosses it out the car window, it effectively makes you really hate Joker.

My favorite part about the book are its character designs. In particular, Killer Croc (referred to as "Croc") is not immediately recognizable but is done in a more practical manner. He's the muscle but appears to simply possess a genetic skin condition (which is based in reality). Harley Quinn's aesthetic doesn't change much, her costume being her stripper gimmick (HQ being a stripper might rub some people the wrong way); but she is taller and doesn't say much at all (again, this might leave a bad taste in some people's mouth).

Even Joker's look is more similar to Heath Ledger's in The Dark Knight, and instead of the iconic and theatrical purple trench coat, he wears a jacket similar to one Bane wears in The Dark Knight Rises:

Other characters that appear are Harvey Dent/Two-Face, Riddler, Penguin, and of course, Batman. The characters as well as their designs are grittier and they're not necessarily referred to by their common names, ala the Nolanverse; but you know it's them right away.

Overall, it's a worthwhile read, and the [very detailed] art keeps your eyes busy. I read it in one sitting--it's not too long, which is good, because it keeps your interest. While it's probably not the greatest Joker story ever told (that goes to The Killing Joke), it belongs on the bookshelf of any Joker fan.

 

**** (out of 5)