Joker film mocks Harley Quinn in 2024 release
- Lady Gaga's portrayal of Harley Quinn in the film significantly alters her traditional characterization.
- The character Lee Quinzel lies about her past to connect with Arthur Fleck, leading to a problematic dynamic.
- Critics argue that this version of Harley perpetuates misogynistic stereotypes and lacks the depth of previous iterations.
In the film "Joker: Folie à Deux," set in the United States, Lady Gaga portrays a version of Harley Quinn that diverges significantly from her established character in the DC universe. Unlike the traditional Harley, who is a psychiatrist manipulated by the Joker, this iteration, named Lee Quinzel, lies about her background to gain Arthur Fleck's affection. The narrative presents her as a mere reflection of Arthur's desires, stripping her of the complexity and agency that fans expect from Harley. As the story unfolds, Arthur confronts Lee about her deceit, revealing a troubling dynamic where she appears to exploit his vulnerabilities. This portrayal raises concerns about misogynistic tropes, suggesting that women are inherently manipulative and only interested in powerful men. Ultimately, the film's depiction of Harley Quinn has been criticized for reducing her character to a hollow figure, lacking depth and motivation beyond serving the male protagonist's narrative.