"Is it just me, or is it getting crazier out there?" asks Arthur Fleck when talking with a social worker in the recently released film, Joker. Little did anyone know that this phrase would be quite fitting to describe a recent interrogation in Kuwait.
A Kuwaiti social media star was reportedly arrested by the police for wandering the streets of the Gulf nation in a Joker costume. Ebraheem Hababi uploaded a series of photos of himself dressed as the character on Instagram, amassing over 8,000 likes on the platform. The virality of the post ultimately led to his arrest and questioning. In the aftermath of the incident, the social media star explained that he will not face charges.
Hababi has posted other photos and videos of himself on Instagram, including one in which he can be seen impersonating Joker, particularly the character's distinctive laugh.
A security source warned "citizens and residents against committing any acts that would destabilize security and spread fear," according to Al Araby.
During an interrogation with the police, Hababi said that he dressed as Joker because he was inspired by the comic-book character and Joaquin Phoenix's portrayal of Joker in the recently released film.
In a video posted by Al Majlliss, Hababi says that though he was not charged, the Ministry of Interior made him sign a pledge to ensure he won't dress up as Joker again. The ministry told him - while warning others - that Joker cosplay shouldn't be done outside one's home.