An anonymously-designed poster depicting Barack Obama as The Joker, from Batman film The Dark Knight, has appeared in dozens of locations across Los Angeles. The word “socialism” is written underneath the menacingly painted face of the US President. It is thought the posters are a reaction to Obama’s recent policy announcements on health care and stimulus spending. Whatever the poster’s intention, the image has sparked debates, arguments and sheer bewilderment. Democrats are up in arms; Republicans are secretly (or not so secretly) smiling gleefully. Andrew Sullivan, in political blog the Daily Dish, states: “It’s graphically striking, but politically obtuse. The Joker is a wild man; Obama is no-drama; the Joker is an anarchist; Obama is a community organiser.” Jack Napier offers a great comment on the LA Times blog: “The Joker would have a field day turning both sides on the other while they eat themselves, that’s the whole point of the Joker…And maybe that’s the whole point of the joke; create a controversy, upset the apple cart, and watch people go!”
Whatever your opinion, the poster certainly is a great piece of political commentary – it’s ambiguous, controversial and has managed to incite the masses. Political satire is an important part of modern culture. It makes the ‘powers that be’ accountable in some small way. So here’s the thing: who created it? America is a free country – the right to freedom of expression is protected: so where is the architect of all this mayhem hiding out … and why? Mr Architect has the balls to challenge the US president but refuses to own up to it: it’s lameness personified. The fact that the poster is anonymous seems to undermine its effect rather than enhance it. It’s the work of a coward. Even The Joker declared his person – the sociopath laid claim to his acts of terror and intimidation. Come out and claim your comment Mr Architect!
Rantchick are you alive. It’s been 16 days with no blog posts. Feeling withdrawals. Haha.
hahaha – been on hold brrrru :) But working on one now. Crazy times guy – got a ton more work to do at work **sulk** = less blogging time. but don’t worry. I have some good stories up my sleeve! Brace yourself.
Haha, i look forward to it.