Todd Phillips has revealed the first look of Joaquin Phoenix as the Joker aka Arthur in his darker standalone movie, Joker.
Met with a somewhat lacklustre response from a few on the internet, the photo presents Phoenix in a pre-Joker state, an ordinary joe that has that certain air of menace which gives you the heebie-jeebies.
At the Toronto Film Festival last week Phoenix was looking even more gaunt as he did the press rounds for The Sister Brothers, you can see an image below and check out the press conference highlights to see Phoenix talking about the film.
Joaquin Phoenix – The Sister Brothers Press Conference – TIFF
Plot direction is something of a myth at the moment, but it is said to be set in 1980’s Gotham City. It will also have a much darker tone than the current set in the DC Cinematic Universe, and with a smaller budget than most Comic book films. Word on the street also says Phillips Joker will be an exploration of a man disregarded by society. Shaping up to be a gritty character study but also a broader cautionary tale.
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Todd Phillips is taking the helm of the standalone movie. He has also co-written the script with 8 Mile and The Fighter scribe Scott Silver. Back in July, it was also reported that Robert De Niro was in talks to join the cast. De Niro’s role would be a pivotal role: a talk show host who is somehow instrumental in the Joker’s origin. The casting news doesn’t stop there Frances Conroy – who has starred in American Horror Story and Young Sheldon – is also in talks to play The Joker’s mother, Penny. Zazie Beetz, Marc Maron, Robert De Niro and Josh Pais are also onboard for the film.
Filming has already commenced. The film is due to be released October 2019
