Top movies featuring the Joker
Explore some of the most memorable films centered around or featuring Gotham's most infamous clown prince of crime, the Joker. From live-action blockbusters to animated features, his presence electrifies the screen.



The Joker isn't just a villain; he's a cultural phenomenon, a chaotic force that has challenged Batman and captivated audiences for decades. His on-screen appearances have ranged from Cesar Romero's campy take in the 60s to Jack Nicholson's theatrical performance, but perhaps the most discussed portrayals in modern cinema have been Heath Ledger's Oscar-winning turn in The Dark Knight and Joaquin Phoenix's transformative performance in Joker. These interpretations highlight the character's complexity, exploring themes of anarchy, mental illness, and societal breakdown.
The character's adaptability allows him to thrive in gritty crime dramas, animated adventures, and even psychological thrillers. His unpredictable nature makes every confrontation compelling, pushing the boundaries of storytelling in superhero and crime genres alike. Whether he's the central figure or a formidable antagonist, the Joker consistently steals the show, leaving an indelible mark on cinematic history and solidifying his place as one of the greatest villains ever created. Getting into the mind of this agent of chaos is always a fascinating, albeit unsettling, journey.
10. Batman: Gotham by Gaslight (2018)
Based on the Elseworlds comic, this animated film transports Batman to a Victorian-era Gotham where he hunts Jack the Ripper. While the main villain is the Ripper, a re-imagined, steampunk-esque version of the Joker makes a memorable appearance, adding another layer of complexity and danger to the mystery. The film does a great job of translating familiar characters and themes into this unique historical setting, offering a fresh perspective on the Batman mythos and providing an intriguing, albeit brief, take on the Clown Prince of Crime.

9. Batman: Return of the Caped Crusaders (2016)
A delightful throwback to the 1960s television series, this animated film sees the return of Adam West as Batman, Burt Ward as Robin, and Julie Newmar as Catwoman. It fully embraces the campy, colorful style of the original show, complete with Dutch angles and on-screen sound effects. The Joker, voiced here by Jeff Bergman doing a fantastic impression of Cesar Romero, is part of the classic rogues' gallery (alongside Penguin and Riddler) plotting world domination. It's a nostalgic and fun adventure that offers a stark contrast to the darker portrayals of the Joker.

8. Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 (2012)
The first half of the adaptation of Frank Miller's iconic comic, this film sets the stage for an older, more brutal Batman's return to Gotham. While the Joker is not a major player in this installment (he is in a catatonic state), the film establishes the world and tone that leads directly into his significant appearance in Part 2. It introduces key characters and conflicts, such as the rise of the Mutants and the tension with the authorities, building the foundation for the epic confrontation with Superman and the Joker that follows.

7. Batman: Under the Red Hood (2010)
This critically acclaimed animated film adapts the popular comic book storyline involving the mysterious Red Hood who is violently cleaning up Gotham. While the identity of the Red Hood is a central mystery, the Joker plays a crucial, albeit deeply disturbing, role in the backstory that fuels the conflict. John DiMaggio lends his voice to a particularly ruthless and unsettling version of the Clown Prince of Crime. The film is known for its strong voice cast (including Jensen Ackles as Red Hood and Neil Patrick Harris as Nightwing) and its mature exploration of themes like loss, revenge, and Batman's moral code.

6. Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 2 (2013)
Concluding the two-part adaptation of Frank Miller's seminal graphic novel, this film sees an older, retired Batman forced back into action. The Joker awakens from a catatonic state specifically because of Batman's return, leading to a brutal, climactic confrontation that is a highlight of the story. Michael Emerson provides a chillingly calm yet utterly psychotic voice for the Joker in this darker, more cynical take on the DC universe. The film captures the gritty, larger-than-life feel of Miller's artwork and narrative, presenting a powerful, aging hero facing his greatest nemesis one last time.

5. Batman: Assault on Arkham (2014)
Set within the continuity of the popular Batman: Arkham video game series, this animated film focuses primarily on the Suicide Squad being tasked with breaking into Arkham Asylum. While Batman is present, the Joker is a key antagonist and driving force behind much of the chaos that ensues. Featuring voice actors like Kevin Conroy as Batman and Troy Baker giving a fantastic performance as the Joker (mirroring his Arkham Origins role), the film is packed with action, dark humor, and unexpected twists, leaning into the more violent and unpredictable nature of the Suicide Squad and the inmates of Arkham.

4. Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993)
Emerging from the acclaimed 'Batman: The Animated Series', this film is a hidden gem often hailed as one of the best Batman movies ever made. It masterfully blends a noir detective story with poignant flashbacks to Batman's early years and his first love. The Joker, voiced with manic glee by Mark Hamill, plays a significant role, his past unexpectedly intertwined with both Batman and the mysterious new villain, the Phantasm. Originally intended for direct-to-video, its quality led to a theatrical release, and its beautiful animation, mature storytelling, and emotional depth make it a standout entry in the Caped Crusader's cinematic history.

3. Batman: The Killing Joke (2016)
This animated adaptation brings one of the most iconic and controversial Batman/Joker stories to life. Based on Alan Moore and Brian Bolland's seminal graphic novel, it attempts to delve into the Joker's possible origins while showcasing his horrific capabilities. Notably, this film received an R-rating, a rarity for DC animated features at the time, allowing it to tackle the source material's dark themes head-on. It also features the return of Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill voicing Batman and the Joker, respectively, adding a layer of beloved familiarity to the intense narrative. While the film includes a divisive prologue not in the original comic, its central adaptation of 'The Killing Joke' remains a powerful (and disturbing) look at the twisted dynamic between hero and villain.

2. The Dark Knight (2008)
Christopher Nolan's masterpiece isn't just a superhero film; it's a crime epic that redefined the genre. At its heart is Heath Ledger's legendary, Academy Award-winning portrayal of the Joker, a force of chaotic nature whose philosophical anarchy is utterly captivating and genuinely chilling. His performance is often cited as one of the greatest villain portrayals ever put to screen. The film's complex plot, stunning action sequences (like the truck flip!), and exploration of moral ambiguity make it a thrilling and intellectually stimulating experience. It's a cinematic benchmark that continues to influence filmmaking today.

1. Joker (2019)
Prepare yourself for a deep, unsettling dive into the psyche of one of cinema's most infamous villains. Joaquin Phoenix delivers an absolutely staggering, Oscar-winning performance as Arthur Fleck, a struggling comedian whose descent into madness is both heartbreaking and terrifying. This film stands apart, offering a grounded, character-driven study that feels less like a superhero movie and more like a psychological thriller set in a gritty, early 1980s Gotham. Director Todd Phillips created something truly audacious, sparking conversations worldwide and achieving massive box office success despite its dark themes and R-rating. It's a performance and a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
