The Joker in Iraq’s Tishreen [October] Protests

Abstract This article explores how the cultural symbol of Joker, from 2019 American movie Joker , first unfolded during Iraqi Tishreen [October] Revolution as radical-gradual creative imagery both shocking and contested among activists. Considering visuals modes, I argue that they emerged antenarrative, open to multiple interpretations. The antenarrative quickly transformed into a derogatory label perpetuating dehumanizing anti-protest narrative by dominant powers their militias. ‘Axis Resistance’ media channels in Iraq Iran have weapon, framing protest movement grand conspiracy with West consequently justifying violent crackdown security forces. activists then reclaimed an attempt defy narrative. linguistic reclamation could not erase parties’ Instead, two narratives continued compete, triggering another set polarized labels.