Movies to watch if you liked Joker
If you were captivated by the complex portrayal of Arthur Fleck in Joker (2019), the cinematic universe surrounding the Clown Prince of Crime offers many more stories. Explore films featuring or deeply connected to Gotham's most infamous villain and his long-standing conflict with Batman.



The character of the Joker has fascinated audiences for decades, evolving through various interpretations that highlight different facets of his chaotic psyche. While Joaquin Phoenix's Oscar-winning performance in the 2019 film offered a unique, grounded origin story, the character's legacy is intertwined with the caped crusader, Batman.
This list delves into films where the Joker plays a significant role or which are essential viewing for understanding the world he inhabits. You'll find everything from Christopher Nolan's critically acclaimed blockbusters featuring Heath Ledger's unforgettable take on the villain, to animated features that adapt some of the most iconic comic book storylines, like The Killing Joke or Under the Red Hood.
Exploring these movies provides a broader perspective on the Joker's impact on Gotham City and his enduring rivalry with Batman. It's a journey through different styles, tones, and eras of storytelling, showcasing why this character remains one of the most compelling figures in popular culture.
13. Batman: Year One (2011)
An animated adaptation of Frank Miller and David Mazzucchelli's foundational comic, this film chronicles Batman's first year fighting crime in Gotham, paralleling Commissioner Gordon's early days on the force. It's a gritty, realistic portrayal of Batman's origins and the city's corruption. While a character who could become the Joker makes a blink-and-you'll-miss-it cameo, the Joker is not present in the story itself. It's essential Batman lore, but not for finding the Joker.

12. Batman: Gotham by Gaslight (2018)
This animated movie transports Batman to a Victorian-era Gotham, where he hunts Jack the Ripper. While the traditional Joker doesn't appear, the film features alternate versions of Batman's rogues, including a character heavily implied to be this reality's version of the Joker, embodying similar chaotic principles. It's a fascinating 'Elseworlds' story that reimagines familiar characters in a unique historical setting.

11. Batman: Hush (2019)
Based on the popular comic storyline, this animated film features a mysterious new villain named Hush who seems to be orchestrating Batman's rogues gallery against him. The Joker makes an appearance as one of the villains manipulated in the plot. While not the central antagonist, his presence adds to the chaos and challenge Batman faces. The film offers a complex mystery with a large cast of characters from Batman's world.

10. Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 (2012)
The first half of the animated adaptation of Frank Miller's iconic comic series. It introduces a future Gotham where Batman has been retired for a decade. While the Joker is mentioned and his past actions weigh heavily on the narrative, he does not appear in this installment. The focus is on Batman's reluctant return and his initial conflicts with a new gang called the Mutants and Two-Face. It expertly sets the stage for the world and themes explored in the second part.

9. Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 2 (2013)
Concluding the adaptation of Frank Miller's seminal graphic novel, this animated film features an older, retired Batman forced back into action. Part 2 includes the Joker, who awakens from a catatonic state upon hearing of Batman's return. Their final confrontation is a highlight, depicting a twisted, co-dependent relationship. The film is known for its gritty tone and exploration of a darker, more brutal Batman. Michael Emerson provides the voice for the Joker in this adaptation.

8. Batman Begins (2005)
This is where Christopher Nolan's groundbreaking trilogy begins, focusing on Bruce Wayne's journey from troubled orphan to Gotham's protector. While the Joker doesn't physically appear until the very end in a brief, tantalizing tease, the film establishes the grounded, realistic world that would later be terrorized by him. It explores Batman's origins, his training, and the initial villains he faces, setting the stage for the chaos to come in 'The Dark Knight'. Christian Bale makes his debut as the Caped Crusader.

7. Batman: Under the Red Hood (2010)
This animated feature adapts a modern classic Batman storyline involving the mysterious Red Hood and his connection to Batman's past trauma, much of which is tied to the Joker. While not the main antagonist, the Joker (voiced chillingly by John DiMaggio) plays a crucial role in the backstory and appears in pivotal moments. The film is known for its complex moral questions and intense action. It's a favorite among fans for its faithful adaptation and strong voice cast.

6. Batman: Assault on Arkham (2014)
Set within the universe of the popular Arkham video games, this animated film centers on the Suicide Squad being sent into Arkham Asylum to retrieve a valuable item. Naturally, the Joker is heavily involved, voiced once again by Troy Baker, who voiced him in the games. The film is action-packed and R-rated, offering a grittier take on these characters. It features a fun dynamic between Harley Quinn and the Joker, and offers insights into the dangerous world of Task Force X.

5. Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993)
A true hidden gem! Originally intended for home video, this animated feature is a continuation of the beloved Batman: The Animated Series and features a significant role for Mark Hamill's Joker. The story is a compelling blend of Batman's past and present, introducing a mysterious new vigilante while delving into Bruce Wayne's early romantic life. Hamill gives one of his finest performances as the Joker, showcasing both his comedic menace and terrifying sadism. It's widely praised by fans and critics alike as one of the best Batman films, animated or live-action.

4. Suicide Squad (2016)
While the focus is on a team of supervillains forced into service, this film features Jared Leto's controversial take on the Joker. His portrayal is a departure from previous versions, presenting a heavily stylized, gangster-inspired Clown Prince of Crime who is deeply intertwined with Margot Robbie's Harley Quinn. Though his screen time is limited compared to other characters, his presence looms large. The film boasts a distinctive look and a soundtrack heavy on needle drops, attempting a fresh, chaotic energy.

3. Batman: The Killing Joke (2016)
This animated adaptation brings one of the most controversial Batman/Joker stories to life. Featuring the iconic voices of Kevin Conroy as Batman and Mark Hamill as the Joker, reprising their roles from the acclaimed animated series, it delves into the Clown Prince of Crime's potential origins. The film sparked discussion for its faithful yet sometimes challenging portrayal of the source material, particularly with the addition of a new prologue involving Batgirl. Hamill's performance as the Joker here is particularly chilling, exploring the character's twisted philosophy.

2. The Dark Knight (2008)
Christopher Nolan's epic sequel redefined the superhero genre, largely thanks to Heath Ledger's legendary, Academy Award-winning turn as the Joker. His chaotic, anarchic portrayal is utterly captivating and genuinely unsettling. The film is a masterclass in tension, featuring complex themes, intense action sequences, and a gripping narrative that pits Christian Bale's Batman against his most formidable foe. It broke box office records and is widely considered one of the greatest films of the 21st century. Ledger's dedication to the role is well-documented, including keeping a diary in character.

1. Joker (2019)
Step into the unsettling world of Arthur Fleck in Todd Phillips' bold character study. Joaquin Phoenix delivers an absolutely electrifying, Oscar-winning performance as a struggling comedian's descent into madness. The film is a gritty, atmospheric exploration of societal neglect and mental health, set against a stunningly realized 1980s Gotham. It's less a superhero movie and more a psychological thriller that sparked immense conversation and became a massive box office hit, proving that character-driven stories can resonate deeply. Phoenix reportedly lost a significant amount of weight for the role, contributing to his physically and emotionally raw portrayal.
