Joker-in-Chief (from Vanity Fair)
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This image is fascinating if puzzling. How is George W. Bush analogous to the Joker? Having seen “The Dark Knight” Bush seems more analogous to Batman and the Joker to terrorism. In fact “The Dark Knight” seems to me almost an apology of sorts for the Bush administration. Batman uses torture (which of course is glorified) as well as questionable surveillance in order to track down a threat which seemingly plays by no rules. The citizens of Gotham also turn against Batman, much as the citizens of the U.S. have turned against Bush. I’m wondering how purposeful a Bush/Batman connection was on Nolan’s part.
On a separate note, Batman is supposed to be a hero but I’ve found it difficult coming up with substantive reasons why he is not simply another vigilante. Thoughts?
I just think the image is horrifying. You’re right, though–as far as the movie joker goes, Bush is nothing like him. The Joker is much smarter and more effective, for example. I don’t see Bush as Batman either, though, for much the same reasons. Batman also doesn’t use guns, and actually takes the blame when it’s not deserved, quite unlike Bush. The surveillance bit made me wonder as well, since there was a definite statement there.
I think he is a vigilante, and not unquestionably good, which is one of the reasons I like him. I think it’s an interesting question whether vigilantism is always wrong. I’m inclined to say no, but I think this is tricky stuff–one of those places where consequentialism and deontology might spar. Eeek.
Anyway, I suspect the idea of the cartoon was “He’s a joker” and not “He’s the Joker,” but I could be wrong.
I agree with you that part of Batman’s appeal is that he does have weaknesses and isn’t entirely good. Superman for example is incredibly boring to me because he’s practically invulnerable. Interestingly Michael Caine reportedly said that Superman is the way America sees itself and Batman is the way the rest of the world sees America. Perhaps Alfred, as Batman’s servant, represents England (or Tony Blair).