The People's Joker (2024) Plot Summary & Timeline

In a gritty and dystopian society where the ever-watchful Caped Crusader (Batman) keeps a close eye on every move, a young individual in the seemingly idyllic town of Smallville, Kansas, becomes captivated by the entertaining antics of UCB Live, a popular sketch comedy show. However, the protagonist’s mother grows concerned when her child grapples with a profound question: “Was I born in the wrong body?” In response, she promptly sets up a consultation with Dr. Crane, a prominent expert at Arkham Asylum, who prescribes Smylex—an insidious medication that compels its users to wear an unwavering smile, masking any emotions they may feel.

Fast forward fifteen years, our hero has matured and makes their way to the vibrant and chaotic city of Gotham, fueled by an unquenchable desire to join the distinguished cast of UCB Live. Upon arrival, they are dubbed “Jokeman,” enjoying a sense of individuality in this troupe, in stark contrast to the female performers who are merely anonymous Harlequins, relegated to backup dancer roles. To achieve their dream of performing on air, they need to come up with a hefty $15,000 and embark on an intensive improv comedy course led by none other than Ra’s al Ghul, a seasoned veteran of UCB.

As the protagonist navigates the treacherous waters of comedy, they establish a remarkable friendship with Oswald Cobblepot, another aspiring comedian struggling to pay the exorbitant fee. United in their quest, they decide to pioneer their own comedic style, dubbing it “anti-comedy,” and set up a base in a worn-down carnival’s dilapidated warehouse. There, they are soon joined by a colorful assembly of rebellious comedians each with their unique take on humor—deliberately awkward, uncomfortable, and unfunny.

Amidst this diverse crew is Jason “Mr. J” Todd, a charming performer who embodies the essence of his namesake, the Joker, delivering socially conscious Marxist-inspired observational humor with relentless fervor. The chemistry between Mr. J and our protagonist is undeniable, leading to a heartfelt date exploring the city’s shadowy underbelly. It is during this intimate encounter that Mr. J divulges his own battles, having recently escaped a tumultuous relationship, triggering a moment of self-realization for the protagonist as they begin to embrace their true identity: that of a transgender woman.

In the backdrop of this unfolding narrative, Mr. J and our hero devise a bold plan to plunge into a vat of estrogen to ease their gender transition. As they undertake this risky endeavor, they encounter a world that uses humor as a mechanism for societal control, forcing those who choose to break away from the norm to operate from the shadows. Liberated from the stifling confines of their past, the protagonist revels in their newfound freedom until an unexpected arrival crashes their celebration—the Caped Crusader himself.

This sudden visit interrupts their plans, leaving Mr. J startled and the protagonist experiencing a whirlwind of emotions ranging from relief to anxiety. As revelations surface, it becomes evident that Mr. J has his own ties to the Dark Knight, harboring a past connection—his ex is Batman. This discovery introduces Carrie Kelley, the orphaned sidekick who would later evolve into Jason Todd, albeit their relationship is shadowed by unhealthy dynamics despite their considerable age difference.

While Batman maintains a facade of normalcy, entertaining audiences through a reality dating show while disguising himself as a straight man and being the host of UCB Live, this reinvention only fuels Jason Todd’s resentment. As the protagonist embraces their identity as Joker the Harlequin, they find themselves ensnared in the toxic patterns of Mr. J’s behavior.

Just when the situation appears dire, a glimmer of hope emerges in the form of Joker’s mother, who arrives seeking redemption for past grievances. However, this coincides with Joker’s pivotal decision to break free from Mr. J’s toxic grasp and challenge the comedy establishment by hijacking a live UCB broadcast. The ultimate gamble: producer Lorne Michaels must choose between Batman and Joker as the show’s host.

Michaels, with a savvy eye for rating potentials, opts to hand the helm to Joker. As expected, Batman attempts to intervene, but he encounters staunch resistance from the anti-comedy troupe. In a wildly unexpected twist, Pamela Isley’s enormous venus flytrap devours Batman, providing Joker with a newfound sense of agency to carve out their path.

Now severed from Mr. J, Joker seeks wisdom from Ra’s, who prophesizes the arrival of a hero capable of liberating comedy from its shackles. This hero is none other than Joker the Harlequin, setting the stage for a rigorous training odyssey that will ultimately determine their rightful place in the realm of comedy.

As the narrative unfolds, Michaels ignites the audience with Smylex, ensuring uncontrollable laughter irrespective of Joker’s unpredictable antics, marking a profound transformation for Michaels as she transcends reality to explore the realm of “supersanity.” Within this transcendent space, she encounters Mx. Mxyzptlk, a powerful otherworldly being, requesting the alteration of time to afford her old friend Oswald the fame and recognition akin to Batman. Surprisingly, Michaels yearns for only a simple, cherished childhood memory—a moment from a 1992 road trip shared with her mother, singing “The Joker” and reveling in joy.

As this surreal narrative comes to a close, the enigmatic Joker leaves the stage wide open for future escapades. The promise of a sequel looms on the horizon, heralding the next chapter in the saga: The People’s Nightmare: Freddy vs Joker—a thrilling confrontation that will see the Clown Prince of Crime face off against the notorious nightmare-maker, Freddy Krueger. As the screen fades to black, viewers are left on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the next thrilling chapter in this darkly comedic adventure.