The Joke

A reclusive comedian, haunted by a past tragedy, accepts an offer to host a late-night talk show, believing it's a chance for a fresh start. However, the line between his on-stage persona and his fractured reality begins to blur as strange occurrences plague the production. He finds himself drawn into a dark mystery connected to his own past, forcing him to confront the true meaning of humor and grief.

Upon its release, "The Joke" received a mixed-to-positive reception. Critics lauded its ambitious narrative and the performances of its lead actors, particularly Anya Taylor-Joy. However, some found the film's pacing uneven and its tonal shifts jarring, with a few criticizing the twist ending as predictable. Audiences were more divided, with some appreciating its unique blend of dark comedy and psychological thriller, while others found it too bleak or confusing.

• Praise for the stellar performances, especially Anya Taylor-Joy.

• Appreciation for Shyamalan's signature suspense and unconventional storytelling.

• Criticism for an occasionally convoluted plot and inconsistent tone.

Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's originality and the strong acting, with many finding the blend of dark humor and suspense to be engaging. However, some viewers expressed frustration with the film's ambiguous ending and found certain plot points difficult to follow.

Nominated for Best Actor (Joaquin Phoenix) at the Golden Globe Awards. Won Best Supporting Actress (Anya Taylor-Joy) at the Critics' Choice Awards.

The opening scene of the dilapidated comedy club was filmed on location at an abandoned vaudeville theater in Philadelphia, which had been closed for over 30 years.