CHARACTERS IN PARALLEL

i. Character – Joker, Played by Joaquin Phoenix

Film – Joker (2019)

ii. Character-Allauddin Khilji, played by Ranveer Singh

Film –Padmaavat (2018)

The thought behind this study was to capture the parallels between psychopaths from the biggest fiction films, set in two completely different periods, generations, and worlds of fantasy. Whether or not Padmavat is a true story is still under debate, while Joker is the supervillain residing in the world of DC comics and more specifically, the Batman franchise.

In the film, Joker was the sole protagonist as well as the antagonist of the story, whereas the film Padmavat was split between three main characters. From an audience’s perspective, the character of Alauddin Khilji absolutely stood apart and made the film what it is.

Through the journey of the films, we watch the characters rising from nothing to reaching the top, with powers of mobilizing, manipulation, and control over the crowd.

Alauddin Khilji rose from being a ruler’s man-at-work to becoming a ruler himself and Joker is an extraordinary story of an ordinary citizen in the city of Gotham. This was one of the most interesting studies in parallels as understanding audience reaction was difficult, considering the hardcore critic and fan following of both characters respectively. What makes both characters so powerful is the passion behind their greed, betrayal, and drive to get what they want.

Through this study not only have I tried to capture their characteristics, but also the portrayal of psyche in parallels. The characters are extremely different, yet their mannerisms, desires, and so much about their behavior are similar. While watching the films there is this feeling of claustrophobia in their presence, and yet a sense of freedom persists that only comes with immense power, the maniacal laugh that thrives with unabashed madness. They are fearless to start a war, to get what they want. What is even more interesting about the characters is that they carry the audience into a certain trance with their powerful acting and expressions that speak louder than words throughout the films.

“Amazing comparison of the rebellious role of society laid out in a modern and historic sense.

So many similarities yet in such different ways for their respective ordeals.

It's a comparison that doesn't come to mind just like that I must say yet very thoughtfully.”

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