Romford Film Festival 2025: ‘Joker: The Last Laugh (Fan Film)’ Review
Stars: John Michie, Bob Barrett | Directed by David Bispham, Jonathan Davenport
Joker: The Last Laugh is a 20-minute fan film directed by David Bispham and Jonathan Davenport that recently had its final big screen showing at the Romford Film Festival. What we have here is a haunting and introspective addition to the ever-growing catalogue of fan-made Batman content. This short film adopts a bold, minimalist approach to the iconic Batman-Joker rivalry, focusing on a single, emotionally charged encounter between an ageing Bruce Wayne (John Michie) and the Joker (Bob Barrett) within the oppressive confines of Arkham Asylum. What sets this film apart from other fan works is its sombre tone, mature storytelling, and unflinching exploration of legacy, mortality, and the psychological toll of an endless feud. While not without its limitations, it delivers a gripping, character-driven experience that punches well above its weight for a non-commercial production and believe me, if this was a bad showing of these characters, I would be the first to scream at these filmmakers.
The plot centres on a weary Bruce Wayne visiting the Joker in Arkham Asylum for what is framed as their final confrontation, as the Joker is scheduled for execution. The story unfolds entirely within a single conversation in a corridor, a claustrophobic setting that mirrors the psychological entrapment of both characters. The plot is deliberately sparse, prioritising dialogue and character interaction over action or sprawling mythology. This choice allows the film to delve deeply into the emotional and philosophical underpinnings of the Batman-Joker dynamic, exploring the important beats of legacy, obsession, and the futility of their eternal struggle. You know the things that make them… well, them.
The film drops us in a world where both hero and villain are past their prime, their battles having left them scarred both internally and externally. Bruce Wayne grapples with the weight of his crusade, while the Joker, though still menacing, seems somewhat diminished, not in spirit but in physicality, hinting at a man whose chaos has been tempered by time or confinement. The script teases the idea of closure, asking whether either character can truly escape the cycle of violence that defines them. Without spoiling key moments, the film’s climax delivers a satisfying, if ambiguous, resolution that invites reflection on whether their “last laugh” is one of triumph, tragedy, both or something else entirely.
It is this focus that sets Joker: The Last Laugh apart from more action-oriented fan films like Batman: The Last Laugh (2011) or 2019’s The Last Laugh by Josh Shreve, which leaned into psychological horror and twist-driven narratives. Instead, this 2025 iteration feels like a meditation on the endgame of a decades-long rivalry, akin to the tone of graphic novels like The Dark Knight Returns or Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow?
The performances are the beating heart of the film, with John Michie and Bob Barrett delivering nuanced portrayals that elevate the material. Michie’s Bruce Wayne is a masterclass in restrained intensity. His weathered demeanour and measured delivery convey a man burdened by years of self-loathing and sacrifice, yet still bound to his mission. There’s a palpable sense of exhaustion in his eyes, making his interactions with the Joker feel like a final reckoning rather than just another battle; he actually feels like he is done and has made his peace with that fact. Michie avoids the stoic caricature often associated with Batman, instead offering a humanised take that resonates with the character’s later years and honestly feels like a version of Bruce that we have never seen before.
Bob Barrett’s Joker is equally captivating, striking a delicate balance between menace and pathos. He channels the chaotic energy of the Clown Prince of Crime but infuses it with a weary, almost reflective quality that suggests a Joker aware of his own mortality and hints at a sort of co-dependence towards his old foe. Barrett’s performance avoids the over-the-top theatrics of some interpretations (e.g., Jack Nicholson’s larger-than-life portrayal) and instead feels closer to the chilling, more thoughtful Heath Ledger or the tragic complexity of Joaquin Phoenix’s iterations. His line delivery is sharp, with moments of dark humour punctuating the tension, and when he does occasionally lean into a raspier vocal effect, it feels somewhat tortured, lived in and hauntingly relatable.
Joker: The Last Laugh boasts impressive production values. The cinematography is tight and purposeful, using dim lighting and close-up shots to amplify the claustrophobic tension of Arkham. The muted colour palette of greys, blues, and shadows evokes a grim, almost noir-like atmosphere that complements the story’s tone. The camera work is confident, with slow pans and deliberate framing that draw attention to the actors’ expressions, particularly during moments of silence that speak louder than words.
The set design is minimal but effective, with Arkham’s stark, institutional aesthetic reinforcing the sense of isolation. Small details, like the flickering fluorescent lights, add authenticity to the setting.
The film’s greatest strength is its focus on character and atmosphere over spectacle. By stripping away the high-octane action typical of Batman stories, it carves out a unique niche, offering a cerebral take on a rivalry that’s been explored countless times. The dialogue is sharp and layered, with enough subtext to reward multiple viewings. Fans of character-driven storytelling will appreciate the film’s willingness to let the actors’ performances carry the narrative, and my christ does it not do this in spades. This is a director that knows the lore, knows the characters and most importantly knows the bottled lightning he has with his actors in these roles, and lets all those ingredients breathe, it’s actually fucking impressive.
The film also benefits from its timing. Released in 2025, it arrives in the wake of high-profile Joker projects like Joker: Folie à Deux (2024), allowing it to tap into the cultural fascination with the character while offering a distinct perspective. Its focus on an older Batman and Joker also feels timely, resonating with audiences familiar with ageing superhero narratives in mainstream media, such as Logan (2017)
Joker: The Last Laugh is THE standout fan film that delivers a poignant, emotionally rich take on one of comics’ greatest rivalries. Its strengths are exceptional performances, atmospheric cinematography, and a thoughtful script, making it a must-watch for DC fans who appreciate character-driven storytelling over spectacle. While its narrow scope and lack of action may not satisfy everyone, its ability to capture the essence of Batman and the Joker in just 20 minutes is a testament to its creators’ skill and passion.
***** 5/5
For those seeking a fresh, reflective take on Gotham’s eternal struggle, Joker: The Last Laugh is a gem worth seeking out when it eventually hits the likes of YouTube, which I am told it will soon enough.
