The new Joker: Folie à Deux film may have bombed at the box office (with a dismal Rotten Tomatoes rating), leaving many Batman fans feeling unfulfilled. Yet, within the chaos of this dark narrative, powerful love “truth-bombs” emerge that deserve our attention. Arthur Fleck's traumatic childhood, marked by an absence of affection, ignites a desperate quest for love that resonates deeply. As I left the theater, I felt both heartbroken for Arthur and inspired by the profound lessons embedded in this film.
Truth-Bomb #1: True Love Always Prioritizes Your Well-Being
Lee, a character herself enshrouded in madness, checks herself into Arkham State Hospital, driven by an obsession with the Joker. Yet, she shows no regard for Arthur Fleck as an individual—only his alter ego. When she urges him to stop taking his antipsychotic medications so that the Joker can emerge, Arthur’s chilling reply is, “I already have.”
This moment underscores a vital truth: it’s dangerous to lose yourself in another person. If you find yourself making unhealthy choices or neglecting your well-being in the name of love, it’s time to reevaluate your relationship. True love is about supporting and prioritizing each other’s health, both mental and physical. A partner who truly values you will always encourage you to be your best self, not just a vessel for their desires.
Truth-Bomb #2: People Want You to Be Who They Need You to Be
At our core, we are inherently selfish beings, often viewing the world through a lens that centers on our own desires. While sharing our lives with others is essential, some individuals will go to great lengths to mold you into a version that serves their needs, rather than embracing you as you are. Lee’s fascination with the Joker reveals her desire for him to fulfill her narrative—her story, her fantasies—without genuine regard for Arthur's individuality.
Remember, you are not a supporting actor in someone else’s drama; you are meant to be the star of your own life. It’s crucial to surround yourself with those who appreciate you for your authentic self, not just for what you can provide them. Resist the temptation to change your core values when in a love relationship. In the end, your truth will always emerge and you can save yourself a lot of pain if you recognize when you are being molded to fit another person's life.
Truth-Bomb #3: Infatuation is Not Love
Our brains can play tricks on us, often blurring the lines between infatuation and genuine love. Infatuation is a neuro chemical response, igniting excitement and passion but ultimately lacking the depth of true love. Both Arthur and Lee are caught in a web of infatuation, mistaking their intense feelings for something real, even as it spirals into despair and violence.
Navigating the distinction between infatuation and love requires awareness and honesty. While the heart may yearn for connection, it's essential to recognize that true love transcends fleeting emotions. Authentic love is rooted in understanding, respect, and a commitment to each other's well-being. Take time to step back and analyze how you really feel. Is it really love? If you are quiet enough and listen, your heart will tell you.
In the end, no matter how many personas you present to the world, your true self will inevitably emerge. Joker: Folie à Deux may have left audiences questioning its place as an action hero movie,, but the love lessons within it are powerful reminders of what we must cherish in our own relationships. Let these love “truth-bombs” guide you toward healthier connections and deeper understanding as you navigate your own journey of love.
As we reflect on the complexities of love portrayed in Joker: Folie à Deux, let's embrace the lessons learned. True love uplifts, honors, and celebrates who we are, rather than molding us into someone else’s fantasy. Remember these truth-bombs as you seek love in your own life, and strive for connections that enrich rather than diminish your spirit.
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