The Character of Murray Franklin in Joker: Unveiling the Inspiration Behind the Clown Prince

The 2019 movie Joker, a critical and box-office success, brought the deranged comic book villain to life on the big screen. As fascinating as the character Pennywise was in It, public interest in a minuscule character, Murray Franklin, is intriguing. Many viewers wondered about his background and influence. This article delves into the origins of Murray Franklin and ties him to other notable characters in the cinema.

Who is Murray Franklin?

While not a central figure in the film, the character of Murray Franklin does not appear in any official DC canon material. Joker creatively blends elements from various sources, often leaving such characters as an afterthought. The enigmatic figure of Murray Franklin, however, is closely linked to another influential character: Rupert Pupkin, played by Robert De Niro in the 1982 film The King of Comedy.

Inspiration from The King of Comedy

The King of Comedy explores the darker side of fame, specifically the obsession of marginalized comedians with becoming famous. The central character, Rupert Pupkin, parallels the themes and character dynamics in Joker, particularly with the Joker's (Joaquin Phoenix) desire for fame and recognition. Just as Pupkin fantasizes about becoming a renowned comedian, the Joker seeks a place in the limelight through any means necessary.

Franklin's Role in the Cinematic Universe

Murray Franklin's character, while not directly modeled after Rupert Pupkin, still shares thematic parallels. In seeing The King of Comedy, De Niro's performance had a profound impact on the development of the Joker character in Joker. The character of Pupkin, with his constant monologues and delusional fantasies, resonated with the core issues of the Joker's psychological state and eventual descent into madness.

Other Sources of Inspiration

It is worth noting that Joker does not focus exclusively on one source of inspiration. While the film takes influence from various aspects, it has been clear that it does not solely rely on The King of Comedy. Another potential source of inspiration was a different character from the Batman animated film Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 2. In this film, a talk show host invites the Joker, resulting in a disastrous and violent episode. Interestingly, no Joker filmmakers have mentioned this particular storyline as an influence for Murray Franklin.

Conclusion

The character of Murray Franklin, while a minor character in Joker, serves to highlight the creative interplay between cinema and its influences. From the dark aspirations of a failed comedian in The King of Comedy to the troubled psyche of a madman in Gotham, these films and characters share common themes that resonate across the years. Understanding such connections enhances our appreciation of the rich tapestry of storytelling that connects us to these iconic figures.