Throughout various media, from the acclaimed Arkham video games to the beloved Batman: The Animated Series, Mark Hamill has solidified his reputation as the quintessential voice of the Joker. His portrayal of the Clown Prince of Crime has transcended the realm of voice acting, making it one of the most celebrated performances in comic book history. Since his first gig as the Joker, Hamill’s unique blend of a sinister cackle and gravelly tone has set the standard for all future interpretations of the character, arguably surpassing even his iconic role as Luke Skywalker.
Hamill’s diverse portfolio of Joker performances spans a multitude of formats, including standalone animated films and video games. His tenure in the DC Animated Universe (DCAU) began with Batman: The Animated Series, where his captivating portrayal not only mesmerized audiences but shaped our understanding of the character across various narratives. From epic showdowns to memorable one-liners, Hamill’s Joker stands as a formidable adversary to Batman in numerous story arcs.
10 The Joker Sings Jingle Bells, Batman Smells
Batman: The Animated Series
A standout moment in children’s entertainment is the hilarious rendition of the classic carol, “Jingle Bells,”famously parodied with Batman-themed lyrics. While this concept gained initial popularity through The Simpsons, it wasn’t until the episode “Christmas with the Joker” in Batman: The Animated Series that audiences witnessed an official homage. Mark Hamill’s Joker bursts forth with the cheerful tune, taking a comedic twist on a festive classic.
On Christmas Eve, the Joker escapes from Arkham Asylum, interrupting a choir’s performance to showcase his version of the song. His antics include riding atop a towering Christmas tree turned rocket, whimsically singing about his chaotic adventures. Hamill’s delivery brings a charm to the chaotic nature of the scene, illustrating his ability to blend humor with malice.
9 Joker Is Outsmarted By A Regular Person
Batman: The Animated Series
The Joker’s allure lies in his unpredictable nature, which is highlighted in the episode “Joker’s Favor”from Batman: The Animated Series. In this storyline, Charlie, an ordinary Gotham citizen, finds himself unwittingly entangled with the Joker after an altercation in traffic. Following years of torment, Charlie calls upon the Joker to repay a favor, only for the tables to turn disastrously.
In a surprising turn of events, Charlie proves to be the unlikely hero, cornering the Joker and threatening him with a bomb. This episode encapsulates Hamill’s Joker as both a terrifying figure and a comically desperate character, showcasing the layered performance that has made him a fan-favorite.
8 Joker Fights Batman On A Jetpack Joyride
Batman: Mask of the Phantasm
In the cinematic masterpiece Batman: Mask of the Phantasm, audiences witness a rare moment of competence from the Joker during an intense aerial battle with Batman. The Joker’s typically manic antics are replaced with a deceptive calmness as he engages in a fierce confrontation, zipping through the skies on a jetpack.
Even in dire straits, forced to confront an enigmatic new vigilante, the Joker can’t help but erupt into infectious laughter, showcasing Hamill’s exceptional ability to convey madness intertwined with dark humor, cementing this scene as a highlight of the film.
7 Joker Finally Kicks The Bucket
Batman: Arkham City
In Batman: Arkham City, the execution of Hamill’s portrayal reaches a poignant climax. The Joker, now gravely ill from the experimental Titan drug, confronts Batman in a desperate final act. The emotional weight of their rivalry shines through as the dying Joker’s fate unfolds.
Though Batman seeks to save him, the Joker instead sabotages his own rescue, embodying a tragicomic duality. As he breathes his last, he shares a final laugh with Batman, leaving a lasting impression of their complex relationship—a beautiful, yet haunting conclusion to a legendary pairing.
6 Joker Haunts Batman’s Psyche
Batman: Arkham Knight
Mark Hamill’s performance as the Joker transcends physical existence in Batman: Arkham Knight. Even after death, the Joker’s influence looms over Batman, manifesting as haunting hallucinations that challenge the Dark Knight’s psyche. This narrative turn adds depth to their rivalry, illustrating how profoundly the Joker has impacted Batman’s life.
Through these spectral interactions, Hamill’s voice reignites familiar chaos, leading Batman closer to the brink as the Joker taunts him into a moral conflict. This memorable performance highlights the psychological toll their battles have had on Batman, reaffirming Hamill’s status as an iconic Joker.
5 Joker Tortures Tim Drake
Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker
In Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker, Hamill’s performance takes a dark turn, revealing the depths of the Joker’s malevolence. In a shocking flashback, viewers witness the transformation of Tim Drake into a twisted version of the Joker, exploring psychological horror that resonates deeply within the Batman universe.
This exploration of trauma highlights Hamill’s extraordinary ability to deliver a chilling portrayal of the Joker. The horrific implications conveyed through his voice add another layer of complexity to the character, solidifying his reputation as one of the most formidable villains in animated history.
4 Joker Mourns Batman’s Death
Batman: The Animated Series
The dynamic between the Joker and Batman reveals layers of complexity, particularly evident in the episode “The Man Who Killed Batman.”When a third party seemingly succeeds in killing Batman, the Joker finds himself unexpectedly remorseful—not a familiar response from the Clown Prince of Crime. His iconic line, “Without Batman, crime has no punchline,” carries significant weight, further emphasizing their intertwined destinies.
Hamill’s portrayal brings a poignant sincerity that resonates deeply, illustrating that despite his chaotic nature, the Joker’s identity is intricately bound to Batman’s existence. Following the passing of Kevin Conroy, Hamill echoed this sentiment, underscoring the invaluable connection they shared as performers.
3 Joker Joins The Injustice Gang
Justice League
In the thrilling Justice League series, the Joker’s entrance into the Injustice Gang showcases his unpredictable and chaotic nature. As he partners with infamous villains to confront the Justice League, his audacious character steals the spotlight, demonstrating his capability to disrupt and cunningly manipulate situations.
In one notable moment, the Joker knocks out Batman, earning a surprising victory that highlights his resourcefulness and cleverness, even when surrounded by more powerful adversaries. This episode perfectly encapsulates his role as a wildcard in the vast landscape of villains.
2 Joker’s “One Bad Day”Monologue
Batman: The Killing Joke
In the animated adaptation of Batman: The Killing Joke, Hamill delivers a spine-chilling performance that captures the Joker’s essence. His infamous “One Bad Day”monologue serves as a chilling examination of the fragile line separating sanity from madness, showcasing Hamill’s extraordinary range as an actor.
This pivotal moment highlights the Joker’s philosophical take on life and tragedy, with Hamill navigating between calm composure and explosive frustration, leaving a chilling effect on viewers and solidifying his mastery over the character.
1 Joker Brings The Justice League To Its Knees
Justice League
In a stunning turn of events in the Justice League series, the Joker demonstrates his capability to threaten even the mightiest heroes. Crafting a diabolical scheme, he nearly dismantles the Justice League by manipulating the Royal Flush Gang and inciting chaos across the city, effectively distracting most of the heroes.
By using Ace, the team’s psychic member, the Joker instigates widespread insanity, showcasing his brilliance and cunning. This narrative evolution emphasizes that despite lacking superpowers, the Joker remains an incredibly potent threat, bolstered by Mark Hamill’s electrifying vocal performance that encapsulates the unmistakable malevolence and wit of the character.
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