IN THIS EPISODE…

Welcome to another adventure within the multiverse! Throw out all that you know about the Batman mythos and the comic book movie because we’re talking about the revolutionary movie, Joker from Todd Phillips. Though this movie experience deserves some company, we’re not alone. From the Say Eff! It Podcast, Gary Scott, joins us. Not only will you know more about his show and his origins but we’re breaking down our favorite films from the Lost Weekend XII film festival before jumping into Joker. When we finally arrive to Joker, this conversation goes deep. Journey with us as we embark on an in-depth conversation about the game-changing aspects of the film, the mental health themes riddled throughout & more.

THE LANGUAGE OF EMPATHY

Empathy seems like a dead language any more these days. As Joker develops itself, it embarks on a character study of Arthur Fleck. Fleck is a man who even from the opening frames is a man struggling with mental illness. Pondering what life would be like if he wasn’t alive or increasing his medication – anything to find joy. Throughout his journey in the film, Arthur is longing for connection. That’s really crucial sometimes. Empathizing with others can improve the mental health of those around us. We largely meet people out of context with the rest of their day. We never know if they are having a good day or bad day, empathizing with them where they are at can be a crucial point of contention for an individual’s well being.

THE VALIDITY OF MENTAL HEALTH

As we slowly approach our 250th episode, mental health will always be the heartbeat of our show. From a personal standpoint, I feel in some ways I’ve been groomed to do a show like Victims and Villains. I was always the guy who would get the phone call from friends in the late hours. Calls that would range from someone wanting to vent to someone wanting to kill themselves or even cut themselves. While others around me would joke about them just wanting attention – IT DOESN’T MATTER. Whether or not, an individual making a suicide threat is serious or not, take them at their word. They are looking for attention. We all are. If you need it, please feel free to get our resources.

And more importantly, if you or someone you know is struggling with suicide, addiction, self-harm or depression - please free feel to reach out. Use any of our resources, call the suicide lifeline (1-800-273-8255) or text 741-741.

Credits: Music by Beggars. Joker is property of Warner Brothers & DC Entertainment. We do not own nor claim any rights. Recorded live at The Alamo Drafthouse in Winchester, VA.