It’s been two years since The People’s Joker was pulled from the festival circuit, and the people have demanded the indie queer comedy film be given a chance to find its audience. Now, after small screenings in the US, the film is finally recovering its momentum and making its way overseas.
The People’s Joker is an unofficial parody centered on the titular DC Comics character, The Joker. Self-billed as an “illegal comic-book movie,” the film retells the origin story of The Joker through a trans lens.
“After years of numbing herself with Smylex, an unfunny clown named Joker grapples with gender identity, first love, and a fascist caped crusader all while founding an illegal comedy theater in Gotham City,” the official synopsis reads. “The People’s Joker, a queer coming of age Joker origin tale.”
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The film’s creator and director Vera Drew also stars in the titular role. Other supporting cast include Better Call Saul’s Bob Odenkirk, comedian Maria Bamford, and Robert Wuhl of 1989’s Batman.
Citing the film’s use of licensed characters, DC Comics and Warner Bros issued copyright claims against it—despite the fact that parody is generally permitted under copyright law. The People’s Joker was notoriously pulled from the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival after just one screening.
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But all that controversy seems to have only boosted the film’s profile. Due to lack of access, the film quickly earned a cult following. It was eventually screened at Outfest in 2023 and received a US theatrical release in spring of 2024. By the end of the year, it was made available through video on demand.
Now The People’s Joker is finally heading towards an international release. Drew announced the exciting news on Instagram.
“FINALLY! The People’s Joker is coming to big screens in the UK & Ireland – screenings in London, Manchester and Birmingham are already confirmed and on sale, with many more on the way!” the caption read. “Let your local programmer(s) know if you want to see it where you are.”
Responding to one commenter, Drew also revealed that the film would be coming to Mexico via Tijuana next month and “more [cities] after that.”
In addition to the aforementioned UK cities, the film has planned screenings in Newcastle, Norwich, Edinburgh, York, Brighton and Bath, with more to be announced. Tickets are available through the Matchbox Cine Club website.
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