Vera Drew’s Journey with “The People’s Joker” Finally Comes to Fruition
Vera Drew, a Los Angeles-based television editor and writer known for her work with alt-comedy icons like Megan Amram and Tim & Eric, embarked on a tumultuous journey with her film “The People’s Joker.” The film, a chaotic and crowdsourced reimagining of Batman’s arch-nemesis as a trans coming-of-age tale, faced legal hurdles and uncertainties before finally finding its way to the big screen.
Drew’s adventure began when she headed to the Toronto International Film Festival in 2022 with her newly acquired passport, just half an hour after completing what she thought was the final cut of the film. “The People’s Joker” was selected to be part of the festival’s prestigious Midnight Madness section, alongside other notable titles. However, a letter from Warner Bros. Discovery expressing concerns about potential brand infringement cast a shadow over the film’s premiere.
Despite the legal challenges, Drew persisted, enlisting the help of pro bono lawyers and ultimately securing the services of a legal team to navigate the complexities of the situation. After intense negotiations, the film was granted a one-time screening at the festival, setting the stage for its eventual release.
Months of silence followed the festival screening, during which Drew strategized and planned the film’s future. Now, after a year and a half, “The People’s Joker” is set to be released by the queer-centric distributor Altered Innocence on April 5. The film’s distributor, Frank Jaffe, expressed his commitment to reaching diverse audiences across the country, despite potential challenges from larger media conglomerates.
Drew’s vision for “The People’s Joker” was a bold and transformative take on the Batman universe, incorporating elements from various iterations of the character. Drawing inspiration from her own experiences as a trans woman in the comedy world, Drew sought to challenge the status quo and offer a fresh perspective on a familiar story.
Navigating legal hurdles, securing music clearances, and facing scrutiny from industry giants like Warner Bros. Discovery were all part of the journey for Drew and her team. Despite the challenges, Drew remained steadfast in her vision and determination to bring “The People’s Joker” to audiences.
As the film prepares for its long-awaited release, Drew reflects on the journey and the lessons learned along the way. While understanding the need for brand protection, she remains grateful for the support and validation received from audiences and legal experts alike. “The People’s Joker” is not just a film; it’s a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of storytelling in the face of adversity.
