Is Jared Leto Ruining the Morbius Character Just Like He Did with the Joker?

Since its release in 2016, Jared Leto's performance as the Joker in Suicide Squad has been both celebrated and criticized. While many view his take on the character as a unique and theatrical performance, others argue that it was overshadowed by the film's overall production and direction. Similarly, his portrayal of Morbius in the 2022 film has faced mixed reactions, with critics highlighting issues with the script, pacing, and overall story rather than Leto's performance alone.

The Joker: A Different Take

The Joker's backstory and interpretation in Suicide Squad were indeed different from previous iterations. Jared Leto brought a more theatrical and angsty approach to the character, emphasizing a doomed and tragic figure. His performance showed a psychopath who was deeply affected by his past, making for a compelling standout role. Although the film was overall criticized, Leto's acting was generally well-received, especially his on-screen chemistry with Margot Robbie.

Morbius: A New Challenge

Morbius, the 2022 film, received predominantly negative reviews. Critics pointed to issues with the script and story pacing, which detracted from the performance quality. Despite the negative reception, some viewers appreciated Leto's portrayal. He brought a sense of obsession and desperation to the character, emphasizing Morbius's tragic quest for a cure, which is well-aligned with the comic book source material.

Leto's Morbius possesses a tragically dark back story, much like the character in the comics. His portrayal highlights the suffering and intense personal journey he undergoes. The monstrous transformation in Morbius is a natural progression, coming later in the film as Morbius abuses his powers. This adds depth to the character, making him more relatable to audiences.

Comprehensible Criticism and Growing Up

Some argue that complaints about Morbius are senseless bullying, particularly comparing the criticism to that of the Smart Hulk. It's crucial to acknowledge that while Leto's performances are unique, they are not without flaws. However, it's important to differentiate between the actor and the role. Jared Leto is a talented actor, and his efforts and dedication to his roles should be recognized. The transformation in Morbius is a clear and deliberate choice to emphasize his internal struggle and becoming a monster.

Leto himself is a decent actor, and his portrayal of Morbius is commendable. The film's issues lie more with the screenplay and overall direction. It's important to give actors the benefit of the doubt and focus on their contributions. The character's arc in Morbius is a clear evolution, reflecting the comic book's portrayal of a man struggling with his curse and the monstrous outcomes.

Conclusion

The performance of Jared Leto in Morbius and in the role of the Joker should be seen as distinct and evolving aspects of his career. While there may be valid criticisms of the films they were part of, focusing on the actor's efforts and contributions is more constructive. It's important for our culture to grow and move past petty criticisms and to give actors like Jared Leto a fair chance to evolve and grow as performers.

In summary, while Jared Leto's performances in both Morbius and the Joker have received mixed reviews, his ability to bring depth and unique perspectives to these roles cannot be denied. The senseless bullying of Morbius and the ongoing negative portrayal of Leto's work only detracts from the nuanced and evolving nature of his career.