First World War drama '1917' was the big winner at the BAFTAs on Sunday, picking up seven awards including best picture and director for Sam Mendes, at a glittering ceremony that made headlines for a glaring lack of diversity among nominees. 
 
The thrilling drama, shot in what appears to be a single take, was also honoured in the outstanding British film, sound, production design, cinematography and special visual effects categories. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-bafta-2020-1917-leads-with-six-wins-heres-the-complete-list-of-winners-278207">See the complete list of winners here</a> 
 
Britain`s top movie awards have been criticized for having all-white shortlists in its acting categories and an all-male one for director, triggering the use of the hashtag #BaftasSoWhite on social media. 
 
BAFTA boss Amanda Berry had said she was "very disappointed" by the lack of diversity. 
 
Joaquin Phoenix voted the best actor for his critically acclaimed transformation from vulnerable loner into confident villain in "Joker", addressed the issue head on in his acceptance speech. 
 
The industry was sending "a very clear message to people of colour that you`re not welcome here", he said, adding it "was on us" to dismantle a system of oppression.

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Joaquin Phoenix accepts his Leading Actor award for his performance in <a href="https://twitter.com/jokermovie?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jokermovie</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EEBAFTAs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EEBAFTAs</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BAFTAs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BAFTAs</a> <a href="https://t.co/1nK49CjrJo">pic.twitter.com/1nK49CjrJo</a>
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Award presenter Rebel Wilson drew the biggest laughs and cheers of the evening when, after reading out the all-male best director list, said: "I don`t think I could do what they do, honestly I just don`t have the balls". 
 
Actress Scarlett Johansson, who missed out in the leading and supporting actress categories, told Reuters the all-male directing shortlist showed women were being held back and the industry had to be mindful of the issue. 
 
"It`s pretty disappointing, especially because there were so many great films this year that happened to be directed by women," she said. 
 
Renee Zellweger beat Johansson to the best actress gong for her portrayal of Judy Garland in "Judy". The two will go head-to-head again at the Oscars on Feb. 9. 
 
It was a frustrating evening for Netflix`s "The Irishman", Martin Scorsese`s star-studded gangster drama, which was nominated in 10 categories but left empty handed. 
 
The streaming giant, however, fared better with divorce drama "Marriage Story", which saw Laura Dern win best supporting actress. 
Brad Pitt picked up best supporting actor for Quentin Tarantino`s "Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood", the only success for a movie nominated for 10 awards. 
 
Bong Joon Ho`s darkly comic film "Parasite" triumphed in the original screenplay and film not in the English language categories at the ceremony at London`s Royal Albert Hall.

First World War drama '1917' was the big winner at the BAFTAs on Sunday, picking up seven awards including best picture and director for Sam Mendes, at a glittering ceremony that made headlines for a glaring lack of diversity among nominees.

First World War drama '1917' was the big winner at the BAFTAs on Sunday, picking up seven awards including best picture and director for Sam Mendes, at a glittering ceremony that made headlines for a glaring lack of diversity among nominees. The thrilling drama, shot in what appears to be a single take, was also honoured in the outstanding British film, sound, production design, cinematography and special visual effects categories. See the complete list of winners here Britain`s top movie awards have been criticized for having all-white shortlists in its acting categories and an all-male one for director, triggering the use of the hashtag #BaftasSoWhite on social media. BAFTA boss Amanda Berry had said she was "very disappointed" by the lack of diversity. Joaquin Phoenix voted the best actor for his critically acclaimed transformation from vulnerable loner into confident villain in "Joker", addressed the issue head on in his acceptance speech. The industry was sending "a very clear message to people of colour that you`re not welcome here", he said, adding it "was on us" to dismantle a system of oppression. Joaquin Phoenix accepts his Leading Actor award for his performance in @jokermovie #EEBAFTAs #BAFTAs pic.twitter.com/1nK49CjrJo — BAFTA (@BAFTA) February 2, 2020 × Award presenter Rebel Wilson drew the biggest laughs and cheers of the evening when, after reading out the all-male best director list, said: "I don`t think I could do what they do, honestly I just don`t have the balls". Actress Scarlett Johansson, who missed out in the leading and supporting actress categories, told Reuters the all-male directing shortlist showed women were being held back and the industry had to be mindful of the issue. "It`s pretty disappointing, especially because there were so many great films this year that happened to be directed by women," she said. Renee Zellweger beat Johansson to the best actress gong for her portrayal of Judy Garland in "Judy". The two will go head-to-head again at the Oscars on Feb. 9. It was a frustrating evening for Netflix`s "The Irishman", Martin Scorsese`s star-studded gangster drama, which was nominated in 10 categories but left empty handed. The streaming giant, however, fared better with divorce drama "Marriage Story", which saw Laura Dern win best supporting actress. Brad Pitt picked up best supporting actor for Quentin Tarantino`s "Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood", the only success for a movie nominated for 10 awards. Bong Joon Ho`s darkly comic film "Parasite" triumphed in the original screenplay and film not in the English language categories at the ceremony at London`s Royal Albert Hall.

BAFTA 2020: '1917' wins best film and best director, best actor Joaquin Phoenix talks of lack of diversity

‘Joker’ is leading Oscars 2020 nominations list with 11 nods as Joaquin Phoenix opened about feeling overwhelmed with the love and appreciation that the film has received ever since it has seen its theatrical release worldwide.&nbsp;

Speaking on getting the highest number of Oscar nominations, Joaquin said, "I feel honoured and humbled to have been nominated by my fellow actors. The Academy's encouragement helped ignite and sustain my career and I am incredibly grateful for that support. I'd like to also congratulate my fellow nominees for being recognised for their inspiring performances that have enriched our art form.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-heres-the-full-list-of-nominees-274061">See the full Oscars 2020 nominations list here.</a>

‘Joker’ is directed by Todd Phillips as about the origin story of Joker, superhero Batman's biggest enemy. The film has got nominations in the categories of Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Cinematography, Adapted Screenplay, Costume Design, Sound Mixing, Sound Editing, Original Score, Film Editing and Make-up and Hairstyling. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/academy-member-stephen-king-receives-backlash-for-comment-on-lack-of-diversity-at-oscars-274405">Also read:&nbsp;Stephen King receives backlash for comment on lack of diversity in Oscar nominations</a>

Earlier, Todd Philips had also reflected on the work that went behind making that film. He said, "Joker began as an idea, an experiment really - take an 'indie approach' to a studio film by inverting it into a character study to reflect the world around us? Explore what we're seeing and feeling in society, from the lack of empathy to the effects of the absence of love. I am deeply honoured by the overwhelming recognition of the Academy, and I want to thank the genius that is Joaquin Phoenix, and all my incredible collaborators. We are beyond humbled that our peers in the film-making community have embraced the film and its message.”&nbsp;Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/salma-hayeks-big-butt-would-have-led-to-a-fashion-disaster-at-oscars-2003-if-not-for-renee-zellweger-273466">Salma Hayek's 'big butt' would have led to a fashion disaster at Oscars 2003 if not for Renee Zellweger</a>

&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-parasite-makes-history-as-first-south-korean-film-to-get-best-picture-best-foreign-film-nods-274142">Also read: Oscars 2020: 'Parasite' makes history as first South Korean film to get Best Picture, Best Foreign Film nod</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscar-nominated-film-1917-has-been-backed-by-indias-reliance-entertainment-274189">Oscar nominated film '1917' has been backed by India's Reliance Entertainment</a>

‘Joker’ is leading Oscars 2020 nominations list with 11 nods as Joaquin Phoenix opened about feeling overwhelmed with the love and appreciation that the film has received ever since it has seen its theatrical release worldwide.

‘Joker’ is leading Oscars 2020 nominations list with 11 nods as Joaquin Phoenix opened about feeling overwhelmed with the love and appreciation that the film has received ever since it has seen its theatrical release worldwide. Speaking on getting the highest number of Oscar nominations, Joaquin said, "I feel honoured and humbled to have been nominated by my fellow actors. The Academy's encouragement helped ignite and sustain my career and I am incredibly grateful for that support. I'd like to also congratulate my fellow nominees for being recognised for their inspiring performances that have enriched our art form.” See the full Oscars 2020 nominations list here. ‘Joker’ is directed by Todd Phillips as about the origin story of Joker, superhero Batman's biggest enemy. The film has got nominations in the categories of Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Cinematography, Adapted Screenplay, Costume Design, Sound Mixing, Sound Editing, Original Score, Film Editing and Make-up and Hairstyling. Also read: Stephen King receives backlash for comment on lack of diversity in Oscar nominations Earlier, Todd Philips had also reflected on the work that went behind making that film. He said, "Joker began as an idea, an experiment really - take an 'indie approach' to a studio film by inverting it into a character study to reflect the world around us? Explore what we're seeing and feeling in society, from the lack of empathy to the effects of the absence of love. I am deeply honoured by the overwhelming recognition of the Academy, and I want to thank the genius that is Joaquin Phoenix, and all my incredible collaborators. We are beyond humbled that our peers in the film-making community have embraced the film and its message.” Also read: Salma Hayek's 'big butt' would have led to a fashion disaster at Oscars 2003 if not for Renee Zellweger Also read: Oscars 2020: 'Parasite' makes history as first South Korean film to get Best Picture, Best Foreign Film nod Oscar nominated film '1917' has been backed by India's Reliance Entertainment

Oscars 2020: Joaquin Phoenix reacts to 'Joker' leading nominations

Todd Philips heartbreaking film 'Joker' had is all set to re-release in India. The film which has earned a whopping 11 nominations at the upcoming Oscar awards, will be re-released in India on February 14. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-review-joaquin-phoenix-is-terrific-in-an-extremely-disturbing-film-253248">Read WION's review of 'Joker' here</a> 
 
Trade analyst Taran Adarsh made the announcement on Twitter on Tuesday. "He`s back... Warner Bros Pictures to *re-release* #Joker on 14 Feb 2020 in #India. #JokerMovie," tweeted Adarsh.

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He's back... Warner Bros Pictures to *re-release* <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Joker?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Joker</a> on 14 Feb 2020 in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JokerMovie?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JokerMovie</a> <a href="https://t.co/4BlPoizI6M">pic.twitter.com/4BlPoizI6M</a>
— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) <a href="https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/1222065933054693379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Phillips-directorial `Joker` offers a new take on the original story of the rise of Batman`s arch-enemy, Joker, painting a dark portrayal of a would-be stand-up comedian`s descent into madness.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-best-film-nominee-273954">Also see: A look at the 9 films that have been nominated in this category</a>

Actor Joaquin Phoenix portrays the comic book villain in the film which has won him several accolades and appreciations in 2019 including a Golden Globe, a SAG Award and an Academy Award nomination.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/2020-oscars-nominations-best-actor-273985">Also see:&nbsp;Meet the best actor nominees</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-heres-the-full-list-of-nominees-274061">Oscars 2020: Here's the full list of nominees</a> 
 
'Joker' is the fourth DC comic title to cross 1 billion USD, after Aquaman (USD 1.15 billion), The Dark Knight Rises (USD 1.084 billion) and The Dark Knight (USD 1.005 billion). 
 
The film had earlier released in India in October 2019 and had earned Rs 50 crores at the box office. Interestingly, another Oscar-nominated film, Quentin Tarantino's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/this-is-where-you-can-watch-oscar-nominated-film-once-upon-a-time-in-hollywood-in-india-276295">'Once Upon A Time In Hollywood' is also set to re-release </a>on the same day.&nbsp;

Todd Philips heartbreaking film 'Joker' had is all set to re-release in India. The film which has earned a whopping 11 nominations at the upcoming Oscar awards, will be re-released in India on February 14.

Todd Philips heartbreaking film 'Joker' had is all set to re-release in India. The film which has earned a whopping 11 nominations at the upcoming Oscar awards, will be re-released in India on February 14. Read WION's review of 'Joker' here Trade analyst Taran Adarsh made the announcement on Twitter on Tuesday. "He`s back... Warner Bros Pictures to *re-release* #Joker on 14 Feb 2020 in #India. #JokerMovie," tweeted Adarsh. He's back... Warner Bros Pictures to *re-release* #Joker on 14 Feb 2020 in #India. #JokerMovie pic.twitter.com/4BlPoizI6M — taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) January 28, 2020 × Phillips-directorial `Joker` offers a new take on the original story of the rise of Batman`s arch-enemy, Joker, painting a dark portrayal of a would-be stand-up comedian`s descent into madness. Also see: A look at the 9 films that have been nominated in this category Actor Joaquin Phoenix portrays the comic book villain in the film which has won him several accolades and appreciations in 2019 including a Golden Globe, a SAG Award and an Academy Award nomination. Also see: Meet the best actor nominees Oscars 2020: Here's the full list of nominees 'Joker' is the fourth DC comic title to cross 1 billion USD, after Aquaman (USD 1.15 billion), The Dark Knight Rises (USD 1.084 billion) and The Dark Knight (USD 1.005 billion). The film had earlier released in India in October 2019 and had earned Rs 50 crores at the box office. Interestingly, another Oscar-nominated film, Quentin Tarantino's 'Once Upon A Time In Hollywood' is also set to re-release on the same day.

Oscar nominated film 'Joker' to re-release in India on this date

There is very little to laugh about in Todd Phillips 'Joker'. Almost nothing in the film, that focusses on a man whose business (at least in the initial part of the film) is to make people laugh, is amusing or entertaining. Instead, Phillips along with co-writer Scott Silver, engulf you in a dark, disturbing world of a mentally unwell person and glorifies it to a great extent.&nbsp;

Arthur Flex (Joaquin Phoenix ) lives in a dowdy flat with his ill mother and works for a company that provides clowns on rent. One look at Arthur and you would know he is not well. Bones sticking out, frail with a mental condition- Arthur needs help. But in a city like Gotham, where lawlessness and unhygienic living conditions have the authorities on their toes- no one has got the time to sit up and take notice of Arthur or his feeble mother. And as he loses his job, and is shunned by the society at large and even made fun of by his screen idol, chat show host and comedian Murray Franklin(Robert De Niro), Arthur unleashes mayhem on the city.&nbsp;

<img alt="joker" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8eed2364-c7b2-454a-8a4e-4cd30a9c5947" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/joker_movie_joaquin_phoenix.png" />

Shot impeccably by Lawrence Sher, the cinematography adds another level of texture to each of the scenes. There's gore, the frames are all dimly lit and Sher's camera shows light only sporadically when Arthur himself has stopped giving a damn about what others think. You can almost feel the stench that's around the city, or feel the wet cigarette that Arthur hastily takes a drag of- that's how vivid and detailed the camera work is.&nbsp;

The film is completely about Arthur. The makers never deviate or introduce a sub-plot (even though they hint at a possible romantic angle), and just keep the story completely straight forward about how the society has created its monster. The mental illness is just one of the justification given to why Arthur becomes the manic, murderous sociopath Joker. Phillips and Silver delve deeper into the world that we live in and question our lifestyle that creates lonely, insecure murderous men like Arthur. The writers also question anarchy, and in the most brazen way show us how society becomes when the gap between the rich and poor increases.&nbsp;

The film rests on Joaquin Phoenix, who despite a very lean frame, dominates every frame of 'Joker'. Phoenix is known for his versatility and has always been able to camouflage into whichever character he plays on the screen. In 'Joker', he has outdone himself. Every expression, the mannerisms, the way he delivers his dialogues, his out of tune dances- is impeccable. There is so much to absorb from his performance. The nervous, maniacal laughter can run a chill down the spine, the way he outrages on live TV makes you anxious about what's coming up next, how he dances down a flight of stairs makes you uncomfortable. &nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zAGVQLHvwOY" width="560"></iframe>

While Joker is a known character in pop culture, to bring some ingenuity to the character requires good writing and acting. You may get uncomfortable at the mayhem that Phoenix creates on-screen but you also feel sympathetic at his situation.&nbsp;

At one point, Arthur scribbles in his journal, "the worst part about having a mental illness is that people expect you to behave as though you don’t" but sadly the writers never delve deeper into it. Instead, they seem to regale at the uneasy environment the film creates with its narrative. Sure, it talks about how Arthur becomes the person he is now, but it never wants to give a solution. Instead, the film glorifies all the misdeeds that he does.

Some would argue that art doesn't need to always give a solution but showing a mental patient being gloriously celebrated on the big screen can have certain repercussions.&nbsp;

In 'Joker', Phoenix stuns with a stupefying performance but the story, with all its dark-Gotham,70's style glory, can leave you disturbed.&nbsp;

There is very little to laugh about in Todd Phillips 'Joker'. Almost nothing in the film, that focusses on a man whose business (at least in the initial part of the film) is to make people laugh, is amusing or entertaining.

There is very little to laugh about in Todd Phillips 'Joker'. Almost nothing in the film, that focusses on a man whose business (at least in the initial part of the film) is to make people laugh, is amusing or entertaining. Instead, Phillips along with co-writer Scott Silver, engulf you in a dark, disturbing world of a mentally unwell person and glorifies it to a great extent. Arthur Flex (Joaquin Phoenix ) lives in a dowdy flat with his ill mother and works for a company that provides clowns on rent. One look at Arthur and you would know he is not well. Bones sticking out, frail with a mental condition- Arthur needs help. But in a city like Gotham, where lawlessness and unhygienic living conditions have the authorities on their toes- no one has got the time to sit up and take notice of Arthur or his feeble mother. And as he loses his job, and is shunned by the society at large and even made fun of by his screen idol, chat show host and comedian Murray Franklin(Robert De Niro), Arthur unleashes mayhem on the city. Shot impeccably by Lawrence Sher, the cinematography adds another level of texture to each of the scenes. There's gore, the frames are all dimly lit and Sher's camera shows light only sporadically when Arthur himself has stopped giving a damn about what others think. You can almost feel the stench that's around the city, or feel the wet cigarette that Arthur hastily takes a drag of- that's how vivid and detailed the camera work is. The film is completely about Arthur. The makers never deviate or introduce a sub-plot (even though they hint at a possible romantic angle), and just keep the story completely straight forward about how the society has created its monster. The mental illness is just one of the justification given to why Arthur becomes the manic, murderous sociopath Joker. Phillips and Silver delve deeper into the world that we live in and question our lifestyle that creates lonely, insecure murderous men like Arthur. The writers also question anarchy, and in the most brazen way show us how society becomes when the gap between the rich and poor increases. The film rests on Joaquin Phoenix, who despite a very lean frame, dominates every frame of 'Joker'. Phoenix is known for his versatility and has always been able to camouflage into whichever character he plays on the screen. In 'Joker', he has outdone himself. Every expression, the mannerisms, the way he delivers his dialogues, his out of tune dances- is impeccable. There is so much to absorb from his performance. The nervous, maniacal laughter can run a chill down the spine, the way he outrages on live TV makes you anxious about what's coming up next, how he dances down a flight of stairs makes you uncomfortable. While Joker is a known character in pop culture, to bring some ingenuity to the character requires good writing and acting. You may get uncomfortable at the mayhem that Phoenix creates on-screen but you also feel sympathetic at his situation. At one point, Arthur scribbles in his journal, "the worst part about having a mental illness is that people expect you to behave as though you don’t" but sadly the writers never delve deeper into it. Instead, they seem to regale at the uneasy environment the film creates with its narrative. Sure, it talks about how Arthur becomes the person he is now, but it never wants to give a solution. Instead, the film glorifies all the misdeeds that he does. Some would argue that art doesn't need to always give a solution but showing a mental patient being gloriously celebrated on the big screen can have certain repercussions. In 'Joker', Phoenix stuns with a stupefying performance but the story, with all its dark-Gotham,70's style glory, can leave you disturbed.

'Joker' review: Joaquin Phoenix is terrific in an extremely disturbing film

Considered as a precursor to Oscars, the Critics Choice Awards on Sunday honoured Quentin Tarantino's film 'Once Upon A Time In Hollywood' as the best picture.&nbsp; 
 
The awards, which honours the best in TV and cinema, almost mirrored Golden Globes while declaring its winners in various categories. Joaquin Phoenix and Renee Zellwegger won top acting honours while Sam Mendes and Bong Joon-ho shared the best director award for '1917' and 'Parasite' respectively.&nbsp; 
 
Here's the complete list of winners at the Critics' Choice Awards 2020.&nbsp; 
 
Best Picture: 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' 
 
Best Actor: Joaquin Phoenix – 'Joker' 
 
Best Actress: Renée Zellweger – 'Judy' 
 
Best Supporting Actor: Brad Pitt – 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood'&nbsp; 
 
Best Supporting Actress: Laura Dern – 'Marriage Story' 
 
Best Young Actress: Roman Griffin Davis – 'Jojo Rabbit'&nbsp; 
 
Best Acting Ensemble: 'The Irishman' 
 
Best Director: Bong Joon Ho – 'Parasite' and Sam Mendes – '1917' 
 
Best Original Screenplay: Quentin Tarantino – 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood'&nbsp; 
 
Best Adapted Screenplay: Greta Gerwig – 'Little Women' 
 
Best Cinematography: Roger Deakins – '1917' 
 
Best Production Design: Barbara Ling, Nancy Haigh – 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood'&nbsp; 
 
Best Editing: Lee Smith – '1917' 
 
Best Costume Design: Ruth E. Carter – 'Dolemite Is My Name' 
 
Best Hair and Makeup: 'Bombshell' 
 
Best Visual Effects: 'Avengers: Endgame' 
 
Best Animated Feature: 'Toy Story 4' 
 
Best Action Movie: 'Avengers: Endgame' 
 
Best Comedy: 'Dolemite Is My Name' 
 
Best Sci-Fi or Horror Movie: 'Us' 
 
Best Foreign Language Film: 'Parasite' 
 
Best Song: 'Glasgow (No Place Like Home)'– 'Wild Rose' &amp; '(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again' – 'Rocketman' 
 
Best Score: Hildur Guðnadóttir – 'Joker'

TELEVISION 
 
Drama Series: 'Succession'&nbsp; 
 
Actor in a Drama Series: Jeremy Strong – &nbsp;'Succession' 
 
Actress in a Drama Series: Regina King – 'Watchmen' 
 
Supporting Actor in a Drama Series: Billy Crudup – 'The Morning Show' 
 
Supporting Actress in a Drama Series: Jean Smart – 'Watchmen' 
 
Comedy Series: 'Barry' 
 
Actor in a Comedy Series: Bill Hader – 'Barry' 
 
Actress in a Comedy Series: Phoebe Waller-Bridge – 'Fleabag'

Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series: Andrew Scott – 'Fleabag' 
 
Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series: Alex Borstein – 'The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel' 
 
Limited Series: 'When They See Us' 
 
TV Movie: 'El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie' 
 
Actor in a Limited Series or Movie Made For Television: Jharrel Jerome – 'When They See Us'&nbsp; 
 
Actress in a Limited Series or Movie Made For Television: Michelle Williams – 'Fosse/Verdon'&nbsp; 
 
Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie Made For Television: Stellan Skarsgård – 'Chernobyl' 
 
Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie Made For Television: Toni Collette – 'Unbelievable' 
 
Animated Series: 'BoJack Horseman' 
 
Talk Show: 'Late Night with Seth Meyers'

Comedy Special: 'Live in Front of a Studio Audience: Norman Lear’s ‘All in the Family’ and ‘The Jeffersons’

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/critics-choice-awards-2020-273892">Also see: Who wore what on the red carpet at the Critics Choice Awards 2020</a>

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Considered as a precursor to Oscars, the Critics Choice Awards on Sunday honoured Quentin Tarantino's film 'Once Upon A Time In Hollywood' as the best picture. The awards, which honours the best in TV and cinema, almost mirrored Golden Globes while declaring its winners in various categories.

Considered as a precursor to Oscars, the Critics Choice Awards on Sunday honoured Quentin Tarantino's film 'Once Upon A Time In Hollywood' as the best picture. The awards, which honours the best in TV and cinema, almost mirrored Golden Globes while declaring its winners in various categories. Joaquin Phoenix and Renee Zellwegger won top acting honours while Sam Mendes and Bong Joon-ho shared the best director award for '1917' and 'Parasite' respectively. Here's the complete list of winners at the Critics' Choice Awards 2020. Best Picture: 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' Best Actor: Joaquin Phoenix – 'Joker' Best Actress: Renée Zellweger – 'Judy' Best Supporting Actor: Brad Pitt – 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' Best Supporting Actress: Laura Dern – 'Marriage Story' Best Young Actress: Roman Griffin Davis – 'Jojo Rabbit' Best Acting Ensemble: 'The Irishman' Best Director: Bong Joon Ho – 'Parasite' and Sam Mendes – '1917' Best Original Screenplay: Quentin Tarantino – 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' Best Adapted Screenplay: Greta Gerwig – 'Little Women' Best Cinematography: Roger Deakins – '1917' Best Production Design: Barbara Ling, Nancy Haigh – 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' Best Editing: Lee Smith – '1917' Best Costume Design: Ruth E. Carter – 'Dolemite Is My Name' Best Hair and Makeup: 'Bombshell' Best Visual Effects: 'Avengers: Endgame' Best Animated Feature: 'Toy Story 4' Best Action Movie: 'Avengers: Endgame' Best Comedy: 'Dolemite Is My Name' Best Sci-Fi or Horror Movie: 'Us' Best Foreign Language Film: 'Parasite' Best Song: 'Glasgow (No Place Like Home)'– 'Wild Rose' & '(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again' – 'Rocketman' Best Score: Hildur Guðnadóttir – 'Joker' TELEVISION Drama Series: 'Succession' Actor in a Drama Series: Jeremy Strong – 'Succession' Actress in a Drama Series: Regina King – 'Watchmen' Supporting Actor in a Drama Series: Billy Crudup – 'The Morning Show' Supporting Actress in a Drama Series: Jean Smart – 'Watchmen' Comedy Series: 'Barry' Actor in a Comedy Series: Bill Hader – 'Barry' Actress in a Comedy Series: Phoebe Waller-Bridge – 'Fleabag' Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series: Andrew Scott – 'Fleabag' Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series: Alex Borstein – 'The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel' Limited Series: 'When They See Us' TV Movie: 'El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie' Actor in a Limited Series or Movie Made For Television: Jharrel Jerome – 'When They See Us' Actress in a Limited Series or Movie Made For Television: Michelle Williams – 'Fosse/Verdon' Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie Made For Television: Stellan Skarsgård – 'Chernobyl' Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie Made For Television: Toni Collette – 'Unbelievable' Animated Series: 'BoJack Horseman' Talk Show: 'Late Night with Seth Meyers' Comedy Special: 'Live in Front of a Studio Audience: Norman Lear’s ‘All in the Family’ and ‘The Jeffersons’ Also see: Who wore what on the red carpet at the Critics Choice Awards 2020

Critics' Choice Awards 2020: The complete list of winners

Veteran activist and actor Jane Fonda was joined by fellow Hollywood stars <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-21-movies-you-should-watch-before-the-awards-night-273034">Joaquin Phoenix</a> and Martin Sheen at the foot of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington on Friday, where they demanded action on climate change alongside other protesters. 
 
"The climate crisis makes our nation and all nations less secure," said Fonda, sporting a red hat as she was cheered on by a crowd that included Sheen. 
 
She also spoke of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/satellite-images-reveal-the-extent-of-australian-bushfire-damage-272645">fires in Australia</a>, which have ravaged tens of thousands of square miles&nbsp;of bushland and caused at least 27 deaths. In Sydney earlier on Friday, thousands of angry protesters had demanded that the Australian government do more to combat climate change. 
 
Last week, Phoenix used his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/77th-golden-globes-australia-fires-abortion-rights-and-other-issues-that-dominated-awards-night-272537">acceptance speech</a> at the Golden Globes - where he won an award for best actor in a drama film - to call on people to make "sacrifices" to slow down global warming. 
 
He returned to the theme at the rally. "The meat and dairy industry is the third leading cause of climate change," he said. "There is something that you can do today, right now and tomorrow by making your choice about what you consume."

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/leonardo-dicaprios-organisation-to-donate-3-million-for-australia-wildfire-relief-273374">Leonardo DiCaprio's organisation to donate $3 million for Australia wildfire relief</a>

Veteran activist and actor Jane Fonda was joined by fellow Hollywood stars Joaquin Phoenix and Martin Sheen at the foot of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington on Friday, where they demanded action on climate change alongside other protesters.

Veteran activist and actor Jane Fonda was joined by fellow Hollywood stars Joaquin Phoenix and Martin Sheen at the foot of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington on Friday, where they demanded action on climate change alongside other protesters. "The climate crisis makes our nation and all nations less secure," said Fonda, sporting a red hat as she was cheered on by a crowd that included Sheen. She also spoke of the fires in Australia, which have ravaged tens of thousands of square miles of bushland and caused at least 27 deaths. In Sydney earlier on Friday, thousands of angry protesters had demanded that the Australian government do more to combat climate change. Last week, Phoenix used his acceptance speech at the Golden Globes - where he won an award for best actor in a drama film - to call on people to make "sacrifices" to slow down global warming. He returned to the theme at the rally. "The meat and dairy industry is the third leading cause of climate change," he said. "There is something that you can do today, right now and tomorrow by making your choice about what you consume." Also read:Leonardo DiCaprio's organisation to donate $3 million for Australia wildfire relief

Jane Fonda, Joaquin Phoenix join climate protesters outside US Congress

Veteran actor Martin Sheen who was one of the celebrities who joined the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jane-fonda-joaquin-phoenix-join-climate-protesters-outside-us-congress-273525">weekly protest organised</a> by actor Jane Fonda against climate change won hearts as he recited Rabindranath Tagore's famous poem "Where the mind is without fear" in front of protestors. 
 
The actor was among 147 people who got arrested later from outside the US. Capitol building. 
&nbsp; 
Before the arrest, Martin- while giving the speech- recited Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore's well-known poem. Sheen quoted from the poem, "Where the mind is without fear, And the head is held high.''&nbsp;&nbsp;

Twitterati showed their love and excitement, as the actor's video from the protest went viral.&nbsp;

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Martin Sheen channelling Rabindranath Tagore is a sight to behold. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://t.co/smiZGMEJPt">https://t.co/smiZGMEJPt</a>
— Malav Parekh (@Malavtweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/Malavtweets/status/1215910499562315776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Indeed, it must be saved by women! Martin Sheen on fighting the good fight, and heeding Tagore’s words <a href="https://t.co/tOHuiVFYt7">https://t.co/tOHuiVFYt7</a>
— Mini Kapoor (@mini_kapoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/mini_kapoor/status/1215912684056539136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Where the clear stream of reason has not lost it's way 
into the dreary desert sand of dead habit. 
Where the mind is led forward by thee 
into ever widening thought and action. 
In to that heaven of freedom, my father, 
LET MY COUNTRY AWAKE! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tagore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tagore</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Poetry_Planet?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Poetry_Planet</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/peace?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#peace</a> . <a href="https://t.co/AvzYb032FW">https://t.co/AvzYb032FW</a>
— Sanjay Bishnoi (@sanjaybishnoi07) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanjaybishnoi07/status/1215911176300662785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This is not the first time Sheen has been heard quoting Rabindranath Tagore. In 2016, a video which had surfaced online, showed Sheen quoting Tagore. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/77th-golden-globes-australia-fires-abortion-rights-and-other-issues-that-dominated-awards-night-272537">Golden Globe</a> winner Joaquin Phoenix was also among those who got arrested on Friday, along with other climate change protestors.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-vM4_wI0jDk" width="560"></iframe> 
&nbsp; 
Jane Fonda's last 'Fire Drill Friday' protest in Washington D.C, saw a lot of celebrities participating including Martin Sheen, Maggie Gyllenhaal and Susan Sarandon.&nbsp;

Veteran actor Martin Sheen who was one of the celebrities who joined the weekly protest organised by actor Jane Fonda against climate change won hearts as he recited Rabindranath Tagore's famous poem "Where the mind is without fear" in front of protestors.

Veteran actor Martin Sheen who was one of the celebrities who joined the weekly protest organised by actor Jane Fonda against climate change won hearts as he recited Rabindranath Tagore's famous poem "Where the mind is without fear" in front of protestors. The actor was among 147 people who got arrested later from outside the US. Capitol building. Before the arrest, Martin- while giving the speech- recited Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore's well-known poem. Sheen quoted from the poem, "Where the mind is without fear, And the head is held high.'' Twitterati showed their love and excitement, as the actor's video from the protest went viral. Martin Sheen channelling Rabindranath Tagore is a sight to behold. #India https://t.co/smiZGMEJPt — Malav Parekh (@Malavtweets) January 11, 2020 × Indeed, it must be saved by women! Martin Sheen on fighting the good fight, and heeding Tagore’s words https://t.co/tOHuiVFYt7 — Mini Kapoor (@mini_kapoor) January 11, 2020 × Where the clear stream of reason has not lost it's way into the dreary desert sand of dead habit. Where the mind is led forward by thee into ever widening thought and action. In to that heaven of freedom, my father, LET MY COUNTRY AWAKE! #Tagore #Poetry_Planet #peace . https://t.co/AvzYb032FW — Sanjay Bishnoi (@sanjaybishnoi07) January 11, 2020 × This is not the first time Sheen has been heard quoting Rabindranath Tagore. In 2016, a video which had surfaced online, showed Sheen quoting Tagore. Golden Globe winner Joaquin Phoenix was also among those who got arrested on Friday, along with other climate change protestors. Jane Fonda's last 'Fire Drill Friday' protest in Washington D.C, saw a lot of celebrities participating including Martin Sheen, Maggie Gyllenhaal and Susan Sarandon.

Martin Sheen recites Rabindranath Tagore's poem at the climate change protest

It was a night of surprises and a few predictable wins. The Golden Globes 2020 may have given OTT platforms a huge presence in the nomination list but ultimately films that released in theatres and not OTT platforms ruled the awards night.&nbsp; 
 
Sam Mendes' period film '1917' took home the major awards of the night- best film drama, and best director for Mendes."That is a big surprise," said Mendes, who beat Martin Scorsese and Quentin Tarantino. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/2020-golden-globes-awards-the-complete-list-of-winners-272377">See the complete list of winners here.</a> 
 
&nbsp;The acting honours in the drama category had two known faces as its winners. Joaquin Phoenix took home the best actor award for his terrific act in 'Joker' while Renee Zellwegger took home the best actress drama award for 'Judy'.&nbsp; 
 
The other big winner of the night was Quentin Tarantino's 'Once Upon A Time In Hollywood' which took home three awards. Tarantino won the best screenplay and best film (musical or comedy) while Brad Pitt won best supporting actor award.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/golden-globes-2020-brad-pitt-jennifer-aniston-priyanka-chopra-serve-some-major-red-carpet-looks-272400#cate-blanchett-and-shailene-woodley-272412">Watch red carpet looks from the Golden Globes 2020.&nbsp;</a> 
 
Awkwafina, a first-time nominee this year, created history and became the first Asian to win best actress comedy or musical for 'The Farewell'.&nbsp; 
 
Laura Dern was named best supporting actress for her role as a ruthless divorce lawyer in 'Marriage Story,' defeating presumed favourite Jennifer Lopez as a feisty pole dancer in 'Hustlers.'

Hosting the ceremony for the fifth time, British comedian Ricky Gervais threw caution to the wind with expletives and jokes that drew mostly nervous laughter in the room of A-list celebrities.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/golden-globes-2020-desi-girl-priyanka-chopra-lights-up-red-carpet-in-a-pink-gown-with-husband-nick-jonas-272431">Also see: Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas turn heads on the red carpet</a>

In the television honours, Phoebe Waller-Bridge charmed her way to winning the best actress for her show 'Fleabag' which also won best series comedy or musical. Other big winners of the night included 'Succession' and 'Chernobyl'.&nbsp;

It was a night of surprises and a few predictable wins. The Golden Globes 2020 may have given OTT platforms a huge presence in the nomination list but ultimately films that released in theatres and not OTT platforms ruled the awards night.

It was a night of surprises and a few predictable wins. The Golden Globes 2020 may have given OTT platforms a huge presence in the nomination list but ultimately films that released in theatres and not OTT platforms ruled the awards night. Sam Mendes' period film '1917' took home the major awards of the night- best film drama, and best director for Mendes."That is a big surprise," said Mendes, who beat Martin Scorsese and Quentin Tarantino. See the complete list of winners here. The acting honours in the drama category had two known faces as its winners. Joaquin Phoenix took home the best actor award for his terrific act in 'Joker' while Renee Zellwegger took home the best actress drama award for 'Judy'. The other big winner of the night was Quentin Tarantino's 'Once Upon A Time In Hollywood' which took home three awards. Tarantino won the best screenplay and best film (musical or comedy) while Brad Pitt won best supporting actor award. Watch red carpet looks from the Golden Globes 2020. Awkwafina, a first-time nominee this year, created history and became the first Asian to win best actress comedy or musical for 'The Farewell'. Laura Dern was named best supporting actress for her role as a ruthless divorce lawyer in 'Marriage Story,' defeating presumed favourite Jennifer Lopez as a feisty pole dancer in 'Hustlers.' Hosting the ceremony for the fifth time, British comedian Ricky Gervais threw caution to the wind with expletives and jokes that drew mostly nervous laughter in the room of A-list celebrities.Also see: Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas turn heads on the red carpet In the television honours, Phoebe Waller-Bridge charmed her way to winning the best actress for her show 'Fleabag' which also won best series comedy or musical. Other big winners of the night included 'Succession' and 'Chernobyl'.

77th Golden Globe awards: Sam Mendes, Quentin Tarantino, Joaquin Phoenix win top honours

After Todd Philips’ ‘Joker’ became the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/critics-applaud-joaquin-phoenix-starrer-joker-as-it-premieres-at-venice-film-festival-247134">most critically acclaimed film</a> of the year and highest-grossing R-rated film of all time with more than<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-expected-to-cross-1-billion-global-box-office-milestone-262513"> $1 billion in the box office</a>, there are talks for a sequel. It's India numbers are also great as it is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-is-now-the-biggest-dc-comics-character-based-film-of-all-time-in-india-258672">biggest DC comics character based film</a> of all-time in the country.&nbsp;

Talks of a sequel have been in the news ever since the film 'Joker'&nbsp;was discussed at almost every film festival this year and there is a buzz of the film making it the Oscars in the top categories, including best film and best actor.&nbsp;

Now, according to a report in the Hollywood Reporter, a sequel is most likely getting formalised as the makers are in a final-stage discussion process. The report asserts that the director-actor duo is “likely to reteam”. How excited are we if this news?&nbsp;

Reportedly, the director will write the screenplay to the 'Joker' sequel along with co-writer Scott Silver, with whom he worked on the original’s script.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, DC is going to get a fresh lease of life with the caped crusader Batman already being shot by Matt Reeves, with Robert Pattinson in the lead.

After Todd Philips’ ‘Joker’ became the most critically acclaimed film of the year and highest-grossing R-rated film of all time with more than $1 billion in the box office, there are talks for a sequel.

After Todd Philips’ ‘Joker’ became the most critically acclaimed film of the year and highest-grossing R-rated film of all time with more than $1 billion in the box office, there are talks for a sequel. It's India numbers are also great as it is biggest DC comics character based film of all-time in the country. Talks of a sequel have been in the news ever since the film 'Joker' was discussed at almost every film festival this year and there is a buzz of the film making it the Oscars in the top categories, including best film and best actor. Now, according to a report in the Hollywood Reporter, a sequel is most likely getting formalised as the makers are in a final-stage discussion process. The report asserts that the director-actor duo is “likely to reteam”. How excited are we if this news? Reportedly, the director will write the screenplay to the 'Joker' sequel along with co-writer Scott Silver, with whom he worked on the original’s script. Meanwhile, DC is going to get a fresh lease of life with the caped crusader Batman already being shot by Matt Reeves, with Robert Pattinson in the lead.

Todd Philips, Joaquin Phoenix likely to reunite for 'Joker' sequel

After standing on top at the box office late last month, Joaquin Phoenix starrer 'Joker'&nbsp;continued its winning streak by crossing $900 million in worldwide ticket sales on Saturday. 
 
The Todd Phillips directorial is proving to be a massive hit and the flick is now assured of generating profits amounting to $500 million or more for Warner Bros and partners Village Roadshow and Bron Studios, according to a news agency. 
 
Not only this, but the dark supervillain movie has broken a number of records including crossing Deadpool's collection $783 million to emerge as the top-grossing R-rated title of all time. 
 
Moreover, box office analysts predict that the film is set to cross $950 million or more by the end of its theatrical run.

As per collections recorded till Friday, 'Joker'&nbsp;stood at&nbsp; $ 289.5 million in the domestic market while the foreign tally on Thursday was $ 602.3 million. 
 
Meanwhile, in its run in India, the Phoenix starrer crossed Rs 50 crore mark almost a fortnight after its release.

The film offers a new take on the origin story of the rise of Batman's maniacal arch-enemy, painting a dark portrayal of a would-be stand-up comedian`s descent into madness.

While Phoenix has received rave reviews for his portrayal of the iconic Batman villain, the film has been facing flak amid fears that it could trigger violence. 
 
Apart from Phoenix, the movie also features Robert De Niro, Bill Camp, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Glenn Fleshler, Douglas Hodge, Marc Maron, Josh Pais, and Shea Whigham.

After standing on top at the box office late last month, Joaquin Phoenix starrer 'Joker' continued its winning streak by crossing $900 million in worldwide ticket sales on Saturday.

After standing on top at the box office late last month, Joaquin Phoenix starrer 'Joker' continued its winning streak by crossing $900 million in worldwide ticket sales on Saturday. The Todd Phillips directorial is proving to be a massive hit and the flick is now assured of generating profits amounting to $500 million or more for Warner Bros and partners Village Roadshow and Bron Studios, according to a news agency. Not only this, but the dark supervillain movie has broken a number of records including crossing Deadpool's collection $783 million to emerge as the top-grossing R-rated title of all time. Moreover, box office analysts predict that the film is set to cross $950 million or more by the end of its theatrical run. As per collections recorded till Friday, 'Joker' stood at $ 289.5 million in the domestic market while the foreign tally on Thursday was $ 602.3 million. Meanwhile, in its run in India, the Phoenix starrer crossed Rs 50 crore mark almost a fortnight after its release. The film offers a new take on the origin story of the rise of Batman's maniacal arch-enemy, painting a dark portrayal of a would-be stand-up comedian`s descent into madness. While Phoenix has received rave reviews for his portrayal of the iconic Batman villain, the film has been facing flak amid fears that it could trigger violence. Apart from Phoenix, the movie also features Robert De Niro, Bill Camp, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Glenn Fleshler, Douglas Hodge, Marc Maron, Josh Pais, and Shea Whigham.

'Joker' hits yet another milestone; crosses $900 million collection worldwide

Finally, the battle for No 1 spot is over as Todd Phillips directorial film `Joker` has bagged the position.The R-rated comic-book hit regained the top spot at the weekend box office in its fourth week of release, narrowly surpassing `Maleficent: Mistress of Evil. 
 
The Warner Bros. sensation, featuring Joaquin Phoenix, raked in USD 18.9 million over the weekend at the US box office, according to studio estimates Sunday, reported People magazine. 
 
The numbers were just an inch less as Disney`s `Maleficent` sequel earned USD 18.6 million and slid to the second position after a No. 1 debut last weekend of USD 36 million. 
 
The Angelina Jolie starring is performing better overseas, where it grossed USD 64.3 million over the weekend. 
 
This week, `Joker` became the most successful R-rated moved ever, surpassing Ryan Reynolds starrer `Deadpool`.&nbsp;

Finally, the battle for No 1 spot is over as Todd Phillips directorial film `Joker` has bagged the position.The R-rated comic-book hit regained the top spot at the weekend box office in its fourth week of release, narrowly surpassing `Maleficent: Mistress of Evil.

Finally, the battle for No 1 spot is over as Todd Phillips directorial film `Joker` has bagged the position.The R-rated comic-book hit regained the top spot at the weekend box office in its fourth week of release, narrowly surpassing `Maleficent: Mistress of Evil. The Warner Bros. sensation, featuring Joaquin Phoenix, raked in USD 18.9 million over the weekend at the US box office, according to studio estimates Sunday, reported People magazine. The numbers were just an inch less as Disney`s `Maleficent` sequel earned USD 18.6 million and slid to the second position after a No. 1 debut last weekend of USD 36 million. The Angelina Jolie starring is performing better overseas, where it grossed USD 64.3 million over the weekend. This week, `Joker` became the most successful R-rated moved ever, surpassing Ryan Reynolds starrer `Deadpool`.

'Joker' bags top position, surpasses 'Maleficent: Mistress of Evil' at the box office

Tourists are flocking to a flight of stairs in the Bronx area of New York that Joaquin Phoenix dances down in an iconic but controversial scene from hit movie 'Joker.'

Film buffs have even had to queue before being able to snap photos of themselves recreating the character's pose that appears on the poster of the Todd Phillips-directed blockbuster.

"It looks even better than in the movie," Tasula Ceballos, a young Russian living in Miami, told AFP, slightly disappointed that the crowds meant her photos didn't come out quite as she had hoped.

"I love when directors shoot in real places. Usually, they film in studios like Warner Brothers but this is a real place. We can come and we can touch the floor," she added.

Before 'Joker'&nbsp;hit theatres in early October, the 132 steps between Shakespeare Avenue and Anderson Avenue were about as far away from the tourist trail in New York as you could get. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-review-joaquin-phoenix-is-terrific-in-an-extremely-disturbing-film-253248">Read movie's review here.&nbsp;</a>

Now visitors are swarming to them from all over the world to upload pictures to Instagram or create hilarious memes to share online.

"I've been a huge fan of Batman since I was small and I'm really happy to come here," said French teenager Noa Angenost, who planned to post his photos on Instagram.

In the film, Phoenix dances down the steps -- with a backdrop of streetlights and classic New York fire escapes -- after transforming himself into the Batman villain. The film has <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-smashes-box-office-record-mints-usd-935-million-over-weekend-254160">smashed several box office records.&nbsp;</a>

Many reviewers were outraged, however, that the song he danced to was by convicted paedophile Gary Glitter. The former glam rocker is in a British jail for sexually abusing three girls in the late 1970s.

This is not the first time that a staircase featured in a film has become a tourist draw -- the steep, narrow flight of 75 stone steps in Washington's Georgetown neighbourhood seen in 'The Exorcist'&nbsp;have drawn crowds for decades.

In the Bronx, the sudden 'Joker'&nbsp;craze is not appreciated by everyone.

Elliott Raylassi, carrying his white bike on his shoulder, tries to disrupt the photoshoots.

"It's my neighborhood and I have to do what I can to defend it," he told AFP, saying it was a "shock" that his area was suddenly under the microscope.

"The movie came out and within a week, people came to visit one of the worst neighbourhoods in the borough.

"There's a trend in New York City that when a neighbourhood garners a lot of tourists' attention, it sparks the interest of developers," he added.

Frankie Astacio, who lives on the other side of the street from the steps, welcomes the interest though.

"It's good for the neighbourhood. It makes it more exciting," he said.

Tourists are flocking to a flight of stairs in the Bronx area of New York that Joaquin Phoenix dances down in an iconic but controversial scene from hit movie 'Joker.

Tourists are flocking to a flight of stairs in the Bronx area of New York that Joaquin Phoenix dances down in an iconic but controversial scene from hit movie 'Joker.' Film buffs have even had to queue before being able to snap photos of themselves recreating the character's pose that appears on the poster of the Todd Phillips-directed blockbuster. "It looks even better than in the movie," Tasula Ceballos, a young Russian living in Miami, told AFP, slightly disappointed that the crowds meant her photos didn't come out quite as she had hoped. "I love when directors shoot in real places. Usually, they film in studios like Warner Brothers but this is a real place. We can come and we can touch the floor," she added. Before 'Joker' hit theatres in early October, the 132 steps between Shakespeare Avenue and Anderson Avenue were about as far away from the tourist trail in New York as you could get. Read movie's review here. Now visitors are swarming to them from all over the world to upload pictures to Instagram or create hilarious memes to share online. "I've been a huge fan of Batman since I was small and I'm really happy to come here," said French teenager Noa Angenost, who planned to post his photos on Instagram. In the film, Phoenix dances down the steps -- with a backdrop of streetlights and classic New York fire escapes -- after transforming himself into the Batman villain. The film has smashed several box office records. Many reviewers were outraged, however, that the song he danced to was by convicted paedophile Gary Glitter. The former glam rocker is in a British jail for sexually abusing three girls in the late 1970s. This is not the first time that a staircase featured in a film has become a tourist draw -- the steep, narrow flight of 75 stone steps in Washington's Georgetown neighbourhood seen in 'The Exorcist' have drawn crowds for decades. In the Bronx, the sudden 'Joker' craze is not appreciated by everyone. Elliott Raylassi, carrying his white bike on his shoulder, tries to disrupt the photoshoots. "It's my neighborhood and I have to do what I can to defend it," he told AFP, saying it was a "shock" that his area was suddenly under the microscope. "The movie came out and within a week, people came to visit one of the worst neighbourhoods in the borough. "There's a trend in New York City that when a neighbourhood garners a lot of tourists' attention, it sparks the interest of developers," he added. Frankie Astacio, who lives on the other side of the street from the steps, welcomes the interest though. "It's good for the neighbourhood. It makes it more exciting," he said.

Movie fans flock to 'Joker' steps in New York

Joaquin Phoenix`s latest outing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-tops-north-american-box-office-for-second-week-earns-55-million-at-the-box-office-255723">`Joker` </a>is proving to be a winner. The film, which opened to mixed reviews, is performing remarkably well at the box office and has crossed the Rs. 50 crore mark in India. 
 
Despite facing tough competition from Bollywood films including Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff`s `War`, and Priyanka Chopra`s `The Sky Is Pink`, the film has managed to do good business. 
 
After closing week one on a high and registering a collection of Rs 37.50 crore, the film hit the 50-crore mark on the thirteenth day. As per Box Office India, the film has raked in a total of Rs. 50.65 crore. 
 
The film kicked off its second weekend with a collection of Rs. 2.50 crore on Friday, Rs. 4.50 crore on Saturday, Rs. 4.50 crore on Sunday and Rs. 1.65 crore on Monday, thus taking its grand total to Rs. 50.65 crore. 
 
The film offers a new take on the origin story of the rise of Batman`s maniacal arch-enemy, painting a dark portrayal of a would-be stand-up comedian`s descent into madness. 
 
While Phoenix has <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-review-joaquin-phoenix-is-terrific-in-an-extremely-disturbing-film-253248">received rave reviews</a> for his portrayal of the iconic Batman villain, the film has been facing flak amid fears that it could trigger violence. It opened the floodgates for discussion on topics ranging from mental health to gun control. 
 
Apart from Phoenix, the movie also features Robert De Niro, Bill Camp, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Glenn Fleshler, Douglas Hodge, Marc Maron, Josh Pais, and Shea Whigham. 
 
The film got an early Oscar buzz after winning the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-wins-golden-lion-at-venice-polanski-drama-is-runner-up-248349">Golden Lion</a>, the Venice International Film Festival`s top award. It also received an eight-minute standing ovation at its Venice Film Festival premiere. The film, directed by Todd Phillips, released on October 2 in India. 
Meanwhile, Priyanka Chopra and Farhan Akhtar`s recently released film `The Sky Is Pink` has been witnessing a decline in box office collection since its first day. 
 
The movie has raked in a total of Rs. 11.80 crore. Despite all the hype, considering the film marks Priyanka`s Bollywood comeback after a hiatus of three years, and it is Zaira Wasim`s last film, Shonali Bose`s directorial venture has not been able to perform well at the box office.&nbsp;

Joaquin Phoenix`s latest outing `Joker` is proving to be a winner. The film, which opened to mixed reviews, is performing remarkably well at the box office and has crossed the Rs.

Joaquin Phoenix`s latest outing `Joker` is proving to be a winner. The film, which opened to mixed reviews, is performing remarkably well at the box office and has crossed the Rs. 50 crore mark in India. Despite facing tough competition from Bollywood films including Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff`s `War`, and Priyanka Chopra`s `The Sky Is Pink`, the film has managed to do good business. After closing week one on a high and registering a collection of Rs 37.50 crore, the film hit the 50-crore mark on the thirteenth day. As per Box Office India, the film has raked in a total of Rs. 50.65 crore. The film kicked off its second weekend with a collection of Rs. 2.50 crore on Friday, Rs. 4.50 crore on Saturday, Rs. 4.50 crore on Sunday and Rs. 1.65 crore on Monday, thus taking its grand total to Rs. 50.65 crore. The film offers a new take on the origin story of the rise of Batman`s maniacal arch-enemy, painting a dark portrayal of a would-be stand-up comedian`s descent into madness. While Phoenix has received rave reviews for his portrayal of the iconic Batman villain, the film has been facing flak amid fears that it could trigger violence. It opened the floodgates for discussion on topics ranging from mental health to gun control. Apart from Phoenix, the movie also features Robert De Niro, Bill Camp, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Glenn Fleshler, Douglas Hodge, Marc Maron, Josh Pais, and Shea Whigham. The film got an early Oscar buzz after winning the Golden Lion, the Venice International Film Festival`s top award. It also received an eight-minute standing ovation at its Venice Film Festival premiere. The film, directed by Todd Phillips, released on October 2 in India. Meanwhile, Priyanka Chopra and Farhan Akhtar`s recently released film `The Sky Is Pink` has been witnessing a decline in box office collection since its first day. The movie has raked in a total of Rs. 11.80 crore. Despite all the hype, considering the film marks Priyanka`s Bollywood comeback after a hiatus of three years, and it is Zaira Wasim`s last film, Shonali Bose`s directorial venture has not been able to perform well at the box office.

Joaquin Phoenix-starrer 'Joker' crosses Rs 50 crore mark in India

Joaquin Phoenix starrer ‘Joker’ has been receiving much praise from around the world and now it is reflecting in box office collections too as it has <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-smashes-box-office-record-mints-usd-935-million-over-weekend-254160">collected over $96 million over its first weekend</a>. Read the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-review-joaquin-phoenix-is-terrific-in-an-extremely-disturbing-film-253248">film's review here.&nbsp;</a>

While moviegoers have been heaping praise on the actor, some also feel that it might promote the culture of gun violence. Marvel star Josh Brolin aka Thanos who played the main evil in ‘Avengers Endgame’ and “Avengers Infinity War’ also took out time to reflect on his stand on the film and you have to read it.&nbsp;

In his lengthy post, Josh wrote that the Todd Philips directorial emphasis on problems of the society and makes you contemplate on a lot of things. He started with, "To appreciate “Joker” I believe you have to have either gone through something traumatic in your lifetime (and I believe most of us have) or understand somewhere in your psyche what true compassion is (which usually comes from having gone through something traumatic, unfortunately). An example of dangerous compassion would be to, say, make a film made about the fragility of the human psyche, and make it so raw, so brutal, so balletic that by the time you leave the theatre you not only don’t want to hurt anything but you desperately want an answer and a solution to the violence and mental health issues that have spun out of control around us. This film makes you hurt and only in pain do we ever want to change. It’s all in the irony of trauma — a fine line between the resentment of wanting to hurt society back for raping you of a decent life, for not protecting you, and accepting what feels like alien feelings with softening to those others who seem freakish in our era of judgment, and digital damnation."

Furthermore, he added, "Like kids in Middle School: man, they can just be mean. For no reason. And, sometimes, those awful little clicky kids breed an evil in someone that rages much later, when everyone pretends we are all back to normal, when we all thought it had just manned up and gone away. We have a habit of hating and ostracizing and dividing and sweeping our problems under the rug. Joker, is simply lifting the rug and looking underneath it. Nothing more. Nothing less. It’s there."

Read the post here:

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B3PXR6gADbe/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">To appreciate “Joker” I believe you have to have either gone through something traumatic in your lifetime (and I believe most of us have) or understand somewhere in your psyche what true compassion is (which usually comes from having gone through something traumatic, unfortunately). An example of dangerous compassion would be to, say, make a film made about the fragility of the human psyche, and make it so raw, so brutal, so balletic that by the time you leave the theatre you not only don’t want to hurt anything but you desperately want an answer and a solution to the violence and mental health issues that have spun out of control around us. This film makes you hurt and only in pain do we ever want to change. It’s all in the irony of trauma — a fine line between the resentment of wanting to hurt society back for raping you of a decent life, for not protecting you, and accepting what feels like alien feelings with softening to those others who seem freakish in our era of judgment, and digital damnation. Like kids in Middle School: man, they can just be mean. For no reason. And, sometimes, those awful little clicky kids breed an evil in someone that rages much later, when everyone pretends we are all back to normal, when we all thought it had just manned up and gone away. We have a habit of hating and ostracizing and dividing and sweeping our problems under the rug. Joker, is simply lifting the rug and looking underneath it. Nothing more. Nothing less. It’s there.</a>

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Joaquin’s performance in the film is being hailed as Oscar-worthy. Whether it translates to a win or even a nomination to start with, is a long shot from now.&nbsp;

Joaquin Phoenix starrer ‘Joker’ has been receiving much praise from around the world and now it is reflecting in box office collections too as it has collected over $96 million over its first weekend.

Joaquin Phoenix starrer ‘Joker’ has been receiving much praise from around the world and now it is reflecting in box office collections too as it has collected over $96 million over its first weekend. Read the film's review here. While moviegoers have been heaping praise on the actor, some also feel that it might promote the culture of gun violence. Marvel star Josh Brolin aka Thanos who played the main evil in ‘Avengers Endgame’ and “Avengers Infinity War’ also took out time to reflect on his stand on the film and you have to read it. In his lengthy post, Josh wrote that the Todd Philips directorial emphasis on problems of the society and makes you contemplate on a lot of things. He started with, "To appreciate “Joker” I believe you have to have either gone through something traumatic in your lifetime (and I believe most of us have) or understand somewhere in your psyche what true compassion is (which usually comes from having gone through something traumatic, unfortunately). An example of dangerous compassion would be to, say, make a film made about the fragility of the human psyche, and make it so raw, so brutal, so balletic that by the time you leave the theatre you not only don’t want to hurt anything but you desperately want an answer and a solution to the violence and mental health issues that have spun out of control around us. This film makes you hurt and only in pain do we ever want to change. It’s all in the irony of trauma — a fine line between the resentment of wanting to hurt society back for raping you of a decent life, for not protecting you, and accepting what feels like alien feelings with softening to those others who seem freakish in our era of judgment, and digital damnation." Furthermore, he added, "Like kids in Middle School: man, they can just be mean. For no reason. And, sometimes, those awful little clicky kids breed an evil in someone that rages much later, when everyone pretends we are all back to normal, when we all thought it had just manned up and gone away. We have a habit of hating and ostracizing and dividing and sweeping our problems under the rug. Joker, is simply lifting the rug and looking underneath it. Nothing more. Nothing less. It’s there." Read the post here: View this post on Instagram To appreciate “Joker” I believe you have to have either gone through something traumatic in your lifetime (and I believe most of us have) or understand somewhere in your psyche what true compassion is (which usually comes from having gone through something traumatic, unfortunately). An example of dangerous compassion would be to, say, make a film made about the fragility of the human psyche, and make it so raw, so brutal, so balletic that by the time you leave the theatre you not only don’t want to hurt anything but you desperately want an answer and a solution to the violence and mental health issues that have spun out of control around us. This film makes you hurt and only in pain do we ever want to change. It’s all in the irony of trauma — a fine line between the resentment of wanting to hurt society back for raping you of a decent life, for not protecting you, and accepting what feels like alien feelings with softening to those others who seem freakish in our era of judgment, and digital damnation. Like kids in Middle School: man, they can just be mean. For no reason. And, sometimes, those awful little clicky kids breed an evil in someone that rages much later, when everyone pretends we are all back to normal, when we all thought it had just manned up and gone away. We have a habit of hating and ostracizing and dividing and sweeping our problems under the rug. Joker, is simply lifting the rug and looking underneath it. Nothing more. Nothing less. It’s there. A post shared by Josh Brolin (@joshbrolin) on Oct 5, 2019 at 7:34am PDT × Joaquin’s performance in the film is being hailed as Oscar-worthy. Whether it translates to a win or even a nomination to start with, is a long shot from now.

Marvel actor Josh Brolin aka Thanos is all praise for Joaquin Phoenix starrer 'Joker'

There are no capes, no special powers and no battles between good and evil in the new "Joker" movie, whose portrayal of the most famous villain in comic book history is the most chilling twist on the character in 50 years.

From campy clown to terrifying madman, Joker no longer a laughing matter

It wasn`t all smooth sailing between actors Joaquin Phoenix and Robert De Niro on the sets of&nbsp; 'Joker'.&nbsp;The Oscar-winning stars had different approaches when it came to preparing for the recently released thriller, which follows the origin story of Batman supervillain. 
The director of the film, Todd Phillips recounted the friction between the powerhouse actors in Phoenix`s recent Vanity Fair profile, and it all came down to whether or not to do a table read. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-review-joaquin-phoenix-is-terrific-in-an-extremely-disturbing-film-253248">Read the review of 'Joker' here.&nbsp;</a> 
 
As Phoenix explained in the piece, he prefers an easier approach to get into the skin of his characters."For me, I always thought that acting should be like a documentary. That you should just feel whatever it is that you`re feeling, what you think the character is going through at that moment," Phoenix told Vanity Fair. However, De Niro, an iconic figure in the film business, likes to read through scripts before shooting and be completely familiar with the character and the material.&nbsp; 
 
Phillips revealed that there was some disagreement before shooting began, as De Niro wanted to do a read-through of the script, a process that Phoenix dislikes. "Bob called me and he goes, `Tell him he`s an actor and he`s got to be there, I like to hear the whole movie, and we`re going to all get in a room and just read it`," Phillips recalled in the interview."And I`m in between a rock and a hard place because Joaquin`s like, `There`s no f--- way I`m doing a read-through,` and Bob`s like, `I do read-throughs before we shoot, that`s what we do`," Phillips added. 
 
The two actors ultimately worked out their differences, with De Niro even taking a moment to hold Phoenix`s face and give him a kiss on the cheek. However, that doesn`t mean that they were pals on the sets, as their characters are rivals in the movie. 
 
Phoenix explained that the pair didn`t really speak on set, because of their shared acting methods and superstitions. "I didn`t like to talk to him on set. The first day we said good morning, and beyond that, I don`t know that we talked much," Phoenix said. 
 
De Niro noted, "His character and my character, we didn`t need to talk about anything. We just say, `Do the work. Relate as the characters to each other.` It makes it simpler and we don`t talk. There`s no reason to." 
 
'Joker` features a new take on the comic book character`s origin story, and follows an aspiring stand-up comedian called Arthur Fleck (Phoenix) whose mental health issues escalate, ultimately leading him to a life of criminality. Apart from Phoenix and De Niro, the movie also features Bill Camp, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Glenn Fleshler, Douglas Hodge, Marc Maron, Josh Pais, and Shea Whigham. 
 
The film released in India on October 2, alongside Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff-starrer `War` and Telugu action epic `Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy`. It releases worldwide on October 4.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

It wasn`t all smooth sailing between actors Joaquin Phoenix and Robert De Niro on the sets of 'Joker'. The Oscar-winning stars had different approaches when it came to preparing for the recently released thriller, which follows the origin story of Batman supervillain.

It wasn`t all smooth sailing between actors Joaquin Phoenix and Robert De Niro on the sets of 'Joker'. The Oscar-winning stars had different approaches when it came to preparing for the recently released thriller, which follows the origin story of Batman supervillain. The director of the film, Todd Phillips recounted the friction between the powerhouse actors in Phoenix`s recent Vanity Fair profile, and it all came down to whether or not to do a table read. Read the review of 'Joker' here. As Phoenix explained in the piece, he prefers an easier approach to get into the skin of his characters."For me, I always thought that acting should be like a documentary. That you should just feel whatever it is that you`re feeling, what you think the character is going through at that moment," Phoenix told Vanity Fair. However, De Niro, an iconic figure in the film business, likes to read through scripts before shooting and be completely familiar with the character and the material. Phillips revealed that there was some disagreement before shooting began, as De Niro wanted to do a read-through of the script, a process that Phoenix dislikes. "Bob called me and he goes, `Tell him he`s an actor and he`s got to be there, I like to hear the whole movie, and we`re going to all get in a room and just read it`," Phillips recalled in the interview."And I`m in between a rock and a hard place because Joaquin`s like, `There`s no f--- way I`m doing a read-through,` and Bob`s like, `I do read-throughs before we shoot, that`s what we do`," Phillips added. The two actors ultimately worked out their differences, with De Niro even taking a moment to hold Phoenix`s face and give him a kiss on the cheek. However, that doesn`t mean that they were pals on the sets, as their characters are rivals in the movie. Phoenix explained that the pair didn`t really speak on set, because of their shared acting methods and superstitions. "I didn`t like to talk to him on set. The first day we said good morning, and beyond that, I don`t know that we talked much," Phoenix said. De Niro noted, "His character and my character, we didn`t need to talk about anything. We just say, `Do the work. Relate as the characters to each other.` It makes it simpler and we don`t talk. There`s no reason to." 'Joker` features a new take on the comic book character`s origin story, and follows an aspiring stand-up comedian called Arthur Fleck (Phoenix) whose mental health issues escalate, ultimately leading him to a life of criminality. Apart from Phoenix and De Niro, the movie also features Bill Camp, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Glenn Fleshler, Douglas Hodge, Marc Maron, Josh Pais, and Shea Whigham. The film released in India on October 2, alongside Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff-starrer `War` and Telugu action epic `Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy`. It releases worldwide on October 4.

Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro didn't get along well on sets of 'Joker'

Actor Joaquin Phoenix opened up about his controversial new film `Joker`, which has been receiving flak amid fears that it could trigger violence. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-review-joaquin-phoenix-is-terrific-in-an-extremely-disturbing-film-253248">Read the film's review here.&nbsp;</a> 
 
Phoenix acknowledged that he predicted that the film will receive at least some criticism due to its subject matter, but he hopes it will spark more meaningful conversations once people actually watch it. 
 
"I didn`t imagine that it would be smooth sailing. It`s a difficult film. In some ways, it`s good that people are having a strong reaction to it," the 44-year-old actor admitted. 
 
The star explained that he wanted to play the iconic Batman villain in a way that the viewers could "sympathise or empathise with this villain." 
 
"It`s so easy for us to -- we want the simple answers, we want to vilify people. It allows us to feel good if we can identify that as evil. But that`s not healthy because we`re not really examining our inherent racism that most white people have, certainly. Or whatever it may be. Whatever issues you may have. It`s too easy for us and I felt like, yeah, we should explore this villain. This malevolent person," he said. 
 
"There`s no real communication, and to me that`s the value of this. I think that we are capable as an audience to see both of those things simultaneously and experience them and value them," Phoenix added.

Director Todd Phillips also spoke up about the flak that the film is receiving. He slammed the critically acclaimed film`s backlash for its portrayal of violence. 
 
In an interview with Vanity Fair, Phillips said, "We`re making a movie about a fictional character in a fictional world, ultimately, and your hope is that people take it for what it is." 
 
He went on to say that films can`t be blamed for a world that is so f--ked up."You can`t blame movies for a world that is so f-ked up that anything can trigger it," the filmmaker said."That`s kind of what the movie is about. It`s not a call to action. If anything it`s a call to self-reflection to society," he added. 
 
During a screening of Warner Bros. film `The Dark Knight Rises`, a gunman shot into a large crowd, killing 12 people and injuring 70. The shooter, James Holmes, was sentenced to life in prison. 
 
The family members of those killed in the Aurora, Colorado mass shooting during a screening of `The Dark Knight Rises` in 2012 recently sent Warner Bros. a letter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-raises-concern-for-us-movie-theatre-massacre-families-251875">voicing their concerns about the movie.</a> 
 
The movie theatre where the Aurora, Colorado, mass shooting took place will not screen `Joker`. 
 
`Joker` features a new take on the comic book character`s origin story, and follows an aspiring stand-up comedian called Arthur Fleck (Phoenix) whose mental health issues escalate, ultimately leading him to a life of criminality. 
 
Apart from Phoenix, the movie also features Robert De Niro, Bill Camp, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Glenn Fleshler, Douglas Hodge, Marc Maron, Josh Pais, and Shea Whigham. 
 
The upcoming flick is a part of the DC Comics universe but will serve as an independent origin story and will not feature any appearances by Batman and other caped crusaders. 
 
The film is getting early Oscar buzz after winning the Golden Lion, the Venice International Film Festival`s top award.&nbsp;Earlier this month, `Joker` <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joaquin-phoenix-starrer-joker-gets-eight-minute-standing-ovation-at-venice-film-festival-247145">received an eight-minute standing ovation</a> at its Venice Film Festival premiere for the origin story that the makers mapped out for Batman`s arch-villain - Joker.&nbsp;

The film releases in India on October 2- two days prior to its world wide release.&nbsp;

Actor Joaquin Phoenix opened up about his controversial new film `Joker`, which has been receiving flak amid fears that it could trigger violence. Read the film's review here.

Actor Joaquin Phoenix opened up about his controversial new film `Joker`, which has been receiving flak amid fears that it could trigger violence. Read the film's review here. Phoenix acknowledged that he predicted that the film will receive at least some criticism due to its subject matter, but he hopes it will spark more meaningful conversations once people actually watch it. "I didn`t imagine that it would be smooth sailing. It`s a difficult film. In some ways, it`s good that people are having a strong reaction to it," the 44-year-old actor admitted. The star explained that he wanted to play the iconic Batman villain in a way that the viewers could "sympathise or empathise with this villain." "It`s so easy for us to -- we want the simple answers, we want to vilify people. It allows us to feel good if we can identify that as evil. But that`s not healthy because we`re not really examining our inherent racism that most white people have, certainly. Or whatever it may be. Whatever issues you may have. It`s too easy for us and I felt like, yeah, we should explore this villain. This malevolent person," he said. "There`s no real communication, and to me that`s the value of this. I think that we are capable as an audience to see both of those things simultaneously and experience them and value them," Phoenix added. Director Todd Phillips also spoke up about the flak that the film is receiving. He slammed the critically acclaimed film`s backlash for its portrayal of violence. In an interview with Vanity Fair, Phillips said, "We`re making a movie about a fictional character in a fictional world, ultimately, and your hope is that people take it for what it is." He went on to say that films can`t be blamed for a world that is so f--ked up."You can`t blame movies for a world that is so f-ked up that anything can trigger it," the filmmaker said."That`s kind of what the movie is about. It`s not a call to action. If anything it`s a call to self-reflection to society," he added. During a screening of Warner Bros. film `The Dark Knight Rises`, a gunman shot into a large crowd, killing 12 people and injuring 70. The shooter, James Holmes, was sentenced to life in prison. The family members of those killed in the Aurora, Colorado mass shooting during a screening of `The Dark Knight Rises` in 2012 recently sent Warner Bros. a letter voicing their concerns about the movie. The movie theatre where the Aurora, Colorado, mass shooting took place will not screen `Joker`. `Joker` features a new take on the comic book character`s origin story, and follows an aspiring stand-up comedian called Arthur Fleck (Phoenix) whose mental health issues escalate, ultimately leading him to a life of criminality. Apart from Phoenix, the movie also features Robert De Niro, Bill Camp, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Glenn Fleshler, Douglas Hodge, Marc Maron, Josh Pais, and Shea Whigham. The upcoming flick is a part of the DC Comics universe but will serve as an independent origin story and will not feature any appearances by Batman and other caped crusaders. The film is getting early Oscar buzz after winning the Golden Lion, the Venice International Film Festival`s top award. Earlier this month, `Joker` received an eight-minute standing ovation at its Venice Film Festival premiere for the origin story that the makers mapped out for Batman`s arch-villain - Joker. The film releases in India on October 2- two days prior to its world wide release.

Joaquin Phoenix, Todd Phillips open up about controversy surrounding 'Joker'

Actor Joaquin Phoenix, who is receiving rave reviews for his performance in the upcoming film `Joker`, lost a whopping 52 pounds and the transformation took a toll on him. 
 
The actor revealed that he developed a `disorder` and became `obsessed` with his new weight, reported E! News. 
 
Phoenix opened up about how shedding the weight took a toll on him, revealing that it became a "disorder" for him. 
 
"Once you reach the target weight, everything changes. Like so much of what`s difficult is waking up every day and being obsessed over like 0.3 pounds. Right? And you really develop like a disorder," the Oscar nominee said. 
 
But in light of the physical and mental challenges of losing so much weight, Phoenix said that it was necessary for him to have a delicate frame as it helped carry out the iconic comic book villain`s movements and mannerisms."But I think the interesting thing for me is what I had expected and anticipated with the weight loss was these feelings of dissatisfaction, hunger, a certain kind of vulnerability and a weakness," Phoenix said. 
 
"But what I didn`t anticipate was this feeling of kind of fluidity that I felt physically. I felt like I could move my body in ways that I hadn`t been able to before. And I think that really lent itself to some of the physical movement that started to emerge as an important part of the character," he added. 
 
Phoenix also revealed that the late actor and performer Ray Bolger influenced Joker`s dance moves in the movie."There was a particular song called `The Old Soft Shoe` that he performed and I saw a video of it and there`s this odd arrogance almost to his movements and, really, I completely just stole it from him," the star said."He does this thing of turning his chin up. This choreographer, Michael Arnold, showed me that and tons of videos and I zeroed in on that one. `That was Joker, right?` There`s an arrogance to him, really. That was probably the greatest influence. But also disco," Phoenix added. 
 
While the actor`s performance is being largely praised, the film, on the other hand, is being criticised for its dark content and sympathetic tone towards the villain. Directed by Todd Phillips `Joker` features a new take on the comic book character`s origin story, and follows an aspiring stand-up comedian called Arthur Fleck (Phoenix) whose mental health issues escalate, ultimately leading him to a life of criminality. 
 
Apart from Phoenix, the movie also features Robert De Niro, Bill Camp, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Glenn Fleshler, Douglas Hodge, Marc Maron, Josh Pais, and Shea Whigham. 
 
The upcoming flick is a part of the DC Comics universe but will serve as an independent origin story and will not feature any appearances by Batman and other caped crusaders. 
 
The film is getting early Oscar buzz after winning the Golden Lion, the Venice International Film Festival`s top award. Earlier this month, `Joker` received an eight-minute standing ovation at its Venice Film Festival premiere for the origin story that the makers mapped out for Batman`s arch-villain - Joker. 
 
The movie is slated to release on October 2 in India.

Actor Joaquin Phoenix, who is receiving rave reviews for his performance in the upcoming film `Joker`, lost a whopping 52 pounds and the transformation took a toll on him.

Actor Joaquin Phoenix, who is receiving rave reviews for his performance in the upcoming film `Joker`, lost a whopping 52 pounds and the transformation took a toll on him. The actor revealed that he developed a `disorder` and became `obsessed` with his new weight, reported E! News. Phoenix opened up about how shedding the weight took a toll on him, revealing that it became a "disorder" for him. "Once you reach the target weight, everything changes. Like so much of what`s difficult is waking up every day and being obsessed over like 0.3 pounds. Right? And you really develop like a disorder," the Oscar nominee said. But in light of the physical and mental challenges of losing so much weight, Phoenix said that it was necessary for him to have a delicate frame as it helped carry out the iconic comic book villain`s movements and mannerisms."But I think the interesting thing for me is what I had expected and anticipated with the weight loss was these feelings of dissatisfaction, hunger, a certain kind of vulnerability and a weakness," Phoenix said. "But what I didn`t anticipate was this feeling of kind of fluidity that I felt physically. I felt like I could move my body in ways that I hadn`t been able to before. And I think that really lent itself to some of the physical movement that started to emerge as an important part of the character," he added. Phoenix also revealed that the late actor and performer Ray Bolger influenced Joker`s dance moves in the movie."There was a particular song called `The Old Soft Shoe` that he performed and I saw a video of it and there`s this odd arrogance almost to his movements and, really, I completely just stole it from him," the star said."He does this thing of turning his chin up. This choreographer, Michael Arnold, showed me that and tons of videos and I zeroed in on that one. `That was Joker, right?` There`s an arrogance to him, really. That was probably the greatest influence. But also disco," Phoenix added. While the actor`s performance is being largely praised, the film, on the other hand, is being criticised for its dark content and sympathetic tone towards the villain. Directed by Todd Phillips `Joker` features a new take on the comic book character`s origin story, and follows an aspiring stand-up comedian called Arthur Fleck (Phoenix) whose mental health issues escalate, ultimately leading him to a life of criminality. Apart from Phoenix, the movie also features Robert De Niro, Bill Camp, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Glenn Fleshler, Douglas Hodge, Marc Maron, Josh Pais, and Shea Whigham. The upcoming flick is a part of the DC Comics universe but will serve as an independent origin story and will not feature any appearances by Batman and other caped crusaders. The film is getting early Oscar buzz after winning the Golden Lion, the Venice International Film Festival`s top award. Earlier this month, `Joker` received an eight-minute standing ovation at its Venice Film Festival premiere for the origin story that the makers mapped out for Batman`s arch-villain - Joker. The movie is slated to release on October 2 in India.

Joaquin Phoenix reveals he developed a disorder after losing weight for 'Joker'

Longtime lovers Joaquin Phoenix and Rooney Mara shelled out major couple goals at the premiere of `Joker` on Saturday. 
 
Though the rumoured engaged couple strutted the green carpet separately during the premiere, paps caught a few sweet moments of the couple, apparently getting cozy and hugging.&nbsp; 
 
This is not the first time Mara has shown up to support her partner. Last month, she supported the actor at the Venice Film Festival for another screening of the highly anticipated film. 
 
Earlier this year, the couple sparked engagement rumours when Mara was spotted wearing a diamond ring on her engagement finger. However, the couple has not confirmed the engagement speculation yet. 
 
The `Joker` star and the `The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo` actress first met in 2016 on the sets of `Mary Magdalene`. The two were reportedly seen spending some quality time together on and offsets while shooting for the film. According to Us Weekly, the two made their red carpet debut as a couple in May 2017 at the Cannes Film Festival. 
 
Most recently the 44-year-old actor gave a speech after receiving an award, shouting out the leading lady of his life at the Toronto International Film Festival`s Tribute Gala."One last thing, somewhere here, I don`t know where, is a filthy dragon, and I want to rip its wings off and fasten a blanket and sleep with it forever," he said. "I love you. Thank you." 
 
The premiere was also joined by Zazie Beetz, Frances Conroy, and director Todd Phillips. 
 
'Joker' hits Indian theatres on October 2 and in US on October 4.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Longtime lovers Joaquin Phoenix and Rooney Mara shelled out major couple goals at the premiere of `Joker` on Saturday. Though the rumoured engaged couple strutted the green carpet separately during the premiere, paps caught a few sweet moments of the couple, apparently getting cozy and hugging.

Longtime lovers Joaquin Phoenix and Rooney Mara shelled out major couple goals at the premiere of `Joker` on Saturday. Though the rumoured engaged couple strutted the green carpet separately during the premiere, paps caught a few sweet moments of the couple, apparently getting cozy and hugging. This is not the first time Mara has shown up to support her partner. Last month, she supported the actor at the Venice Film Festival for another screening of the highly anticipated film. Earlier this year, the couple sparked engagement rumours when Mara was spotted wearing a diamond ring on her engagement finger. However, the couple has not confirmed the engagement speculation yet. The `Joker` star and the `The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo` actress first met in 2016 on the sets of `Mary Magdalene`. The two were reportedly seen spending some quality time together on and offsets while shooting for the film. According to Us Weekly, the two made their red carpet debut as a couple in May 2017 at the Cannes Film Festival. Most recently the 44-year-old actor gave a speech after receiving an award, shouting out the leading lady of his life at the Toronto International Film Festival`s Tribute Gala."One last thing, somewhere here, I don`t know where, is a filthy dragon, and I want to rip its wings off and fasten a blanket and sleep with it forever," he said. "I love you. Thank you." The premiere was also joined by Zazie Beetz, Frances Conroy, and director Todd Phillips. 'Joker' hits Indian theatres on October 2 and in US on October 4.

Joaquin Phoenix, Rooney Mara make an elegant couple at 'Joker' premiere

Families involved in a 2012 movie theatre mass shooting in Colorado have asked the studio behind 'Joker'&nbsp;to help lobby for gun reform, expressing concern about the film's portrait of a mental breakdown that leads to violence.

In a letter to Warner Bros, the families of some of the victims also urged the company to end any political contributions to candidates who take money from the National Rifle Association (NRA) and to fund gun violence intervention programs.

The letter does not ask for the movie to be withdrawn. But it says, "with great power comes great responsibility. That's why we're calling on you to use your massive platform and influence to join us in our fight to build safer communities with fewer guns."

The letter, seen by Variety and other Hollywood industry outlets, comes before 'Joker,'&nbsp;starring Joaquin Phoenix as the Batman comic book villain, opens in US&nbsp;movie theatres on October&nbsp;4. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-trailer-joaquin-phoenix-gives-the-famous-anti-hero-a-new-spin-in-todd-phillips-film-246373">Watch the trailer here.&nbsp;</a>

The movie won the top award at the Venice film festival in September and has won plaudits for its disturbing depiction of a social outcast who wreaks terrifying violence. Box office analysts expect it to take about $70 million-$80 million at the North American box office on its opening weekend. It got an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joaquin-phoenix-starrer-joker-gets-eight-minute-standing-ovation-at-venice-film-festival-247145">eight-minute standing ovation</a> at Venice Film Festival.

Warner Bros said on Tuesday that it had a long history of donating to victims of violence, including those in the Colorado shooting. The movie studio added in a statement that its parent, telecommunications company AT&amp;T Inc, had recently joined other business leaders in calling for legislation to address the issue of mass shootings in the United States.

"Neither the fictional character Joker nor the film, is an endorsement of real-world violence of any kind. It is not the intention of the film, the filmmakers or the studio to hold this character up as a hero," the statement added.

Twelve people were killed and 70 were wounded in 2012 during a midnight movie theatre showing of 'The Dark Knight,'&nbsp;also about the Joker character, in Aurora, Colorado, by a lone gunman who is now serving multiple life sentences.

"When we learned that Warner Bros was releasing a movie called 'Joker' that presents the character as a protagonist with a sympathetic origin story, it gave us pause," said the letter, dated Sept. 23 and signed by five men and women.

One of those signatories, Sandy Phillips, told the Hollywood Reporter in an interview that he feared that even one person who is "on the edge, who is wanting to be a mass shooter, maybe encouraged by this movie. And that terrifies me."

Phoenix and 'Joker' director Todd Phillips have defended the film against suggestions that it may encourage violence.

"I think we all are aware of these issues and we're concerned, and I think that's why we talk about it. I don't think that we can be afraid to talk about it," Phoenix told entertainment website IGN in an interview earlier this week.

Phoenix is next <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-star-joaquin-phoenixs-next-to-be-with-mike-mills-drama-250732">set to star in an untitled drama </a>from acclaimed indie filmmaker writer-director Mike Mills.

Families involved in a 2012 movie theatre mass shooting in Colorado have asked the studio behind 'Joker' to help lobby for gun reform, expressing concern about the film's portrait of a mental breakdown that leads to violence.

Families involved in a 2012 movie theatre mass shooting in Colorado have asked the studio behind 'Joker' to help lobby for gun reform, expressing concern about the film's portrait of a mental breakdown that leads to violence. In a letter to Warner Bros, the families of some of the victims also urged the company to end any political contributions to candidates who take money from the National Rifle Association (NRA) and to fund gun violence intervention programs. The letter does not ask for the movie to be withdrawn. But it says, "with great power comes great responsibility. That's why we're calling on you to use your massive platform and influence to join us in our fight to build safer communities with fewer guns." The letter, seen by Variety and other Hollywood industry outlets, comes before 'Joker,' starring Joaquin Phoenix as the Batman comic book villain, opens in US movie theatres on October 4. Watch the trailer here. The movie won the top award at the Venice film festival in September and has won plaudits for its disturbing depiction of a social outcast who wreaks terrifying violence. Box office analysts expect it to take about $70 million-$80 million at the North American box office on its opening weekend. It got an eight-minute standing ovation at Venice Film Festival. Warner Bros said on Tuesday that it had a long history of donating to victims of violence, including those in the Colorado shooting. The movie studio added in a statement that its parent, telecommunications company AT&T Inc, had recently joined other business leaders in calling for legislation to address the issue of mass shootings in the United States. "Neither the fictional character Joker nor the film, is an endorsement of real-world violence of any kind. It is not the intention of the film, the filmmakers or the studio to hold this character up as a hero," the statement added. Twelve people were killed and 70 were wounded in 2012 during a midnight movie theatre showing of 'The Dark Knight,' also about the Joker character, in Aurora, Colorado, by a lone gunman who is now serving multiple life sentences. "When we learned that Warner Bros was releasing a movie called 'Joker' that presents the character as a protagonist with a sympathetic origin story, it gave us pause," said the letter, dated Sept. 23 and signed by five men and women. One of those signatories, Sandy Phillips, told the Hollywood Reporter in an interview that he feared that even one person who is "on the edge, who is wanting to be a mass shooter, maybe encouraged by this movie. And that terrifies me." Phoenix and 'Joker' director Todd Phillips have defended the film against suggestions that it may encourage violence. "I think we all are aware of these issues and we're concerned, and I think that's why we talk about it. I don't think that we can be afraid to talk about it," Phoenix told entertainment website IGN in an interview earlier this week. Phoenix is next set to star in an untitled drama from acclaimed indie filmmaker writer-director Mike Mills.

'Joker' raises concern for US movie theatre massacre families

Having won critical praise and the best film award at the Venice International Film festival, Joaquin Phoenix starrer 'Joker' is all set to release worldwide. The good news is that film's India release has been preponed by two days.&nbsp; 
 
'Joker' will now be releasing across the country on October 2. Earlier it was scheduled to release on October 4 in the country. &nbsp;So Indian audience will get to watch the film two days prior to rest of the world now. In US, the film releases on October 4.&nbsp; 
 
The announcement was made by Warner Bros India on their official Twitter page.&nbsp;

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📢📢📢<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JokerMovie?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JokerMovie</a> will now release in India on Wednesday, October 2nd, two days ahead of its initial scheduled release! <a href="https://t.co/bDlwxYSPqN">pic.twitter.com/bDlwxYSPqN</a>
— Warner Bros. India (@warnerbrosindia) <a href="https://twitter.com/warnerbrosindia/status/1176745802481438720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The film will now be clashing at the box office with Yash Raj Film's 'War' which stars Hrithik Roshan, Tiger Shroff and Vaani Kapoor. Considering its a national holiday- Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary- both the films are expected to do good business on the first day of release.&nbsp;

Directed by Todd Philips, the film DC Comic's favourite villain's story from a fresh point of view- the Joker's point of view. The film received an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joaquin-phoenix-starrer-joker-gets-eight-minute-standing-ovation-at-venice-film-festival-247145">eight-minute standing ovation</a> from the audience after its first screening at the Venice Film Festival last month.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/travel-back-in-time-with-jokers-batmans-worst-enemy-208204"> Also see:&nbsp;Travel back in time with the Jokers - Batman's worst enemy</a> 
 
The film won the prestigious Golden Lion award at the festival while Phoenix won the Best Actor award at the Toronto Film Festival.&nbsp;

Having won critical praise and the best film award at the Venice International Film festival, Joaquin Phoenix starrer 'Joker' is all set to release worldwide. The good news is that film's India release has been preponed by two days.

Having won critical praise and the best film award at the Venice International Film festival, Joaquin Phoenix starrer 'Joker' is all set to release worldwide. The good news is that film's India release has been preponed by two days. 'Joker' will now be releasing across the country on October 2. Earlier it was scheduled to release on October 4 in the country. So Indian audience will get to watch the film two days prior to rest of the world now. In US, the film releases on October 4. The announcement was made by Warner Bros India on their official Twitter page. 📢📢📢#JokerMovie will now release in India on Wednesday, October 2nd, two days ahead of its initial scheduled release! pic.twitter.com/bDlwxYSPqN — Warner Bros. India (@warnerbrosindia) September 25, 2019 × The film will now be clashing at the box office with Yash Raj Film's 'War' which stars Hrithik Roshan, Tiger Shroff and Vaani Kapoor. Considering its a national holiday- Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary- both the films are expected to do good business on the first day of release. Directed by Todd Philips, the film DC Comic's favourite villain's story from a fresh point of view- the Joker's point of view. The film received an eight-minute standing ovation from the audience after its first screening at the Venice Film Festival last month. Also see: Travel back in time with the Jokers - Batman's worst enemy The film won the prestigious Golden Lion award at the festival while Phoenix won the Best Actor award at the Toronto Film Festival.

Joaquin Phoenix starrer 'Joker' to now release in India on this day

Families of victims of 2012’s Aurora theatre shooting recently <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-raises-concern-for-us-movie-theatre-massacre-families-251875">wrote a letter </a>to the Warner Bros. for their upcoming film ‘Joker’ starring Joaquin Phoenix in the villainous role, asking for help to combat gun violence.&nbsp;

Not shying away from confronting the issue, the makers have responded to the letter. They said that gun violence is “a critical issue” in the letter and said that the company "has a long history of donating to victims of violence, including Aurora, and in recent weeks, our parent company joined other business leaders to call on policymakers to enact bipartisan legislation to address this epidemic."

The statement further read, "At the same time, Warner Bros. believes that one of the functions of storytelling is to provoke difficult conversations around complex issues," the statement continued.

"Make no mistake: neither the fictional character Joker nor the film, is an endorsement of real-world violence of any kind. It is not the intention of the film, the filmmakers or the studio to hold this character up as a hero."

The families had written a letter addressed to Warner Bros. CEO Ann Sarnoff, asking the studio to "use your massive platform and influence to join us in our fight to build safer communities with fewer guns.”

Directed by Todd Philips, ‘Joker’ releases on October 4 in the US while in India it will come out on October 2.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-trailer-joaquin-phoenix-gives-the-famous-anti-hero-a-new-spin-in-todd-phillips-film-246373">Watch the trailer here.&nbsp;</a>

Families of victims of 2012’s Aurora theatre shooting recently wrote a letter to the Warner Bros. for their upcoming film ‘Joker’ starring Joaquin Phoenix in the villainous role, asking for help to combat gun violence.

Families of victims of 2012’s Aurora theatre shooting recently wrote a letter to the Warner Bros. for their upcoming film ‘Joker’ starring Joaquin Phoenix in the villainous role, asking for help to combat gun violence. Not shying away from confronting the issue, the makers have responded to the letter. They said that gun violence is “a critical issue” in the letter and said that the company "has a long history of donating to victims of violence, including Aurora, and in recent weeks, our parent company joined other business leaders to call on policymakers to enact bipartisan legislation to address this epidemic." The statement further read, "At the same time, Warner Bros. believes that one of the functions of storytelling is to provoke difficult conversations around complex issues," the statement continued. "Make no mistake: neither the fictional character Joker nor the film, is an endorsement of real-world violence of any kind. It is not the intention of the film, the filmmakers or the studio to hold this character up as a hero." The families had written a letter addressed to Warner Bros. CEO Ann Sarnoff, asking the studio to "use your massive platform and influence to join us in our fight to build safer communities with fewer guns.” Directed by Todd Philips, ‘Joker’ releases on October 4 in the US while in India it will come out on October 2. Watch the trailer here.

Joker: Warner Bros. Studio responds to letter from families of gun violence victims

While he is awaiting the release of the much-anticipated film 'Joker', Joaquin Phoenix has already bagged his next role! Phoenix is set to star in an untitled drama from acclaimed indie filmmaker writer-director Mike Mills. 
 
The fill will be produced by A24. According to the news agency, the production is due to commence this fall. 
 
Chelsea Barnard, Lila Yacoub and Andrea Longacre-White will be producing the film. Phoenix is currently awaiting the release of 'Joker'&nbsp;which was premiered at the Venice Film Festival earlier in September. 
 
The film and his performance in the titular role welcomed rave reviews with Phoenix receiving an eight-minute standing ovation. 
 
The flick is a part of the DC Comics universe but will serve as an independent origin story and will not feature any appearances by Batman and other caped crusaders. 
 
'Joker'&nbsp;also won the Golden Lion Award at the festival. The upcoming film is directed by Todd Phillips and will hit big screens on October 4.

While he is awaiting the release of the much-anticipated film 'Joker', Joaquin Phoenix has already bagged his next role! Phoenix is set to star in an untitled drama from acclaimed indie filmmaker writer-director Mike Mills.

While he is awaiting the release of the much-anticipated film 'Joker', Joaquin Phoenix has already bagged his next role! Phoenix is set to star in an untitled drama from acclaimed indie filmmaker writer-director Mike Mills. The fill will be produced by A24. According to the news agency, the production is due to commence this fall. Chelsea Barnard, Lila Yacoub and Andrea Longacre-White will be producing the film. Phoenix is currently awaiting the release of 'Joker' which was premiered at the Venice Film Festival earlier in September. The film and his performance in the titular role welcomed rave reviews with Phoenix receiving an eight-minute standing ovation. The flick is a part of the DC Comics universe but will serve as an independent origin story and will not feature any appearances by Batman and other caped crusaders. 'Joker' also won the Golden Lion Award at the festival. The upcoming film is directed by Todd Phillips and will hit big screens on October 4.

'Joker' star Joaquin Phoenix next to be with Mike Mills drama

Actor Joaquin Phoenix, who is receiving rave reviews for his performance in the upcoming film 'Joker'&nbsp;after it premiered at the Venice International Film Festival, wasn't&nbsp;too keen on shedding 52 pounds. Instead, his vision for his character was different than what his director Todd Phillips imagined. 
 
Phoenix has developed a reputation as an actor who will leave no stone unturned to portray a character but losing weight for his performance in 'Joker'&nbsp;almost didn't happen, reported a magazine. Phoenix spoke to a magazine about playing Arthur, the man who went on to become Gotham's greatest villain Joker. 
 
In the film, Arthur is portrayed as wearyingly thin, however, Phoenix wanted his character to be "kind of heavy." "It's a horrible way to live," the actor said of having to lose a huge amount of weight in a short amount of time."I think the Joker should be kind of heavy," he added. 
 
Despite his approach to the evil character, Phillips had other ideas. "Todd was like, 'I think you should do the real thin person," Phoenix recalled. The three-time Oscar-nominated actor eventually agreed, bowing to the filmmaker's creative vision and lost 52 pounds to get into the skin of his character. 
 
Phoenix also trained with a choreographer and watched videos of famous dancers, although he didn't reveal who. Phoenix also spoke about his weight loss in August while promoting the film at the Venice International Film Festival. 
 
He told the reporters at that time, "The first thing was the weight loss, that's really what I started with. As it turns out, that impacts your psychology, and you really start to go mad when you lose that much weight in that amount of time. "The actor went on to say that he wanted to create something that "wasn't identifiable" "This is a fictional character and I didn't want a psychiatrist to be able to identify the kind of person he was. I wanted the freedom to create something that wasn't identifiable. We were getting into medication and what issues he might have, but I thought let's step away from that. We want to have the room to create what we want," he added. 
 
The film is getting early Oscar buzz after winning the Golden Lion, the Venice International Film Festival's top award. Earlier this month, 'Joker'&nbsp;received an eight-minute standing ovation at its Venice Film Festival premiere for the origin story that the makers mapped out for Batman's arch-villain&nbsp;Joker. 
 
The upcoming flick is a part of the DC Comics universe but will serve as an independent origin story and will not feature any appearances by Batman and other caped crusaders. Apart from Phoenix, the film also features Robert De Niro, Bill Camp, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Glenn Fleshler, Douglas Hodge, Marc Maron, Josh Pais, and Shea Whigham. It is slated to hit the theatres on October 4.&nbsp;

Actor Joaquin Phoenix, who is receiving rave reviews for his performance in the upcoming film 'Joker' after it premiered at the Venice International Film Festival, wasn't too keen on shedding 52 pounds.

Actor Joaquin Phoenix, who is receiving rave reviews for his performance in the upcoming film 'Joker' after it premiered at the Venice International Film Festival, wasn't too keen on shedding 52 pounds. Instead, his vision for his character was different than what his director Todd Phillips imagined. Phoenix has developed a reputation as an actor who will leave no stone unturned to portray a character but losing weight for his performance in 'Joker' almost didn't happen, reported a magazine. Phoenix spoke to a magazine about playing Arthur, the man who went on to become Gotham's greatest villain Joker. In the film, Arthur is portrayed as wearyingly thin, however, Phoenix wanted his character to be "kind of heavy." "It's a horrible way to live," the actor said of having to lose a huge amount of weight in a short amount of time."I think the Joker should be kind of heavy," he added. Despite his approach to the evil character, Phillips had other ideas. "Todd was like, 'I think you should do the real thin person," Phoenix recalled. The three-time Oscar-nominated actor eventually agreed, bowing to the filmmaker's creative vision and lost 52 pounds to get into the skin of his character. Phoenix also trained with a choreographer and watched videos of famous dancers, although he didn't reveal who. Phoenix also spoke about his weight loss in August while promoting the film at the Venice International Film Festival. He told the reporters at that time, "The first thing was the weight loss, that's really what I started with. As it turns out, that impacts your psychology, and you really start to go mad when you lose that much weight in that amount of time. "The actor went on to say that he wanted to create something that "wasn't identifiable" "This is a fictional character and I didn't want a psychiatrist to be able to identify the kind of person he was. I wanted the freedom to create something that wasn't identifiable. We were getting into medication and what issues he might have, but I thought let's step away from that. We want to have the room to create what we want," he added. The film is getting early Oscar buzz after winning the Golden Lion, the Venice International Film Festival's top award. Earlier this month, 'Joker' received an eight-minute standing ovation at its Venice Film Festival premiere for the origin story that the makers mapped out for Batman's arch-villain Joker. The upcoming flick is a part of the DC Comics universe but will serve as an independent origin story and will not feature any appearances by Batman and other caped crusaders. Apart from Phoenix, the film also features Robert De Niro, Bill Camp, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Glenn Fleshler, Douglas Hodge, Marc Maron, Josh Pais, and Shea Whigham. It is slated to hit the theatres on October 4.

Joaquin Phoenix wanted Joker to be 'heavy'

Actor Meryl Streep, Joaquin Phoenix and cinematographer Roger Deakins were bestowed with the Tribute Award at the Toronto Film Festival`s inaugural Gala on Tuesday. 
 
Streep was presented with the honour by actors Gary Oldman and Antonio Banderas.&nbsp; 
 
During her acceptance speech, Streep said the most common question is, as always, how she picks scripts."Usually it`s because of the people," Variety quoted the actor as answering."And when armed with material that`s compelling you have to ask yourself -- does this help? Does this need to be in the world?" `The Post` actor added. 
 
Meanwhile, Phoenix who shared the award with `The Post` actor, shared his source of inspiration apart from thanking others in his Tribute award acceptance speech. 
 
"My mother is a constant source of inspiration, and everything I do, I do for her," he said. 
 
His upcoming release `Joker` was recently premiered at the festival and also won the Golden Lion award at the Venice Film Festival. 
Streep, on the work front, is awaiting the release of `The Laundromat` on September 27 which first debuted at the Venice Film Festival.&nbsp;

Actor Meryl Streep, Joaquin Phoenix and cinematographer Roger Deakins were bestowed with the Tribute Award at the Toronto Film Festival`s inaugural Gala on Tuesday.

Actor Meryl Streep, Joaquin Phoenix and cinematographer Roger Deakins were bestowed with the Tribute Award at the Toronto Film Festival`s inaugural Gala on Tuesday. Streep was presented with the honour by actors Gary Oldman and Antonio Banderas. During her acceptance speech, Streep said the most common question is, as always, how she picks scripts."Usually it`s because of the people," Variety quoted the actor as answering."And when armed with material that`s compelling you have to ask yourself -- does this help? Does this need to be in the world?" `The Post` actor added. Meanwhile, Phoenix who shared the award with `The Post` actor, shared his source of inspiration apart from thanking others in his Tribute award acceptance speech. "My mother is a constant source of inspiration, and everything I do, I do for her," he said. His upcoming release `Joker` was recently premiered at the festival and also won the Golden Lion award at the Venice Film Festival. Streep, on the work front, is awaiting the release of `The Laundromat` on September 27 which first debuted at the Venice Film Festival.

Meryl Streep, Joaquin Phoenix honoured with Tribute actor award at TIFF

Joker — the standalone DC film starring Joaquin Phoenix in the lead and directed by Todd Phillips (The Hangover trilogy) — was awarded the Golden Lion at the 76th Venice International Film Festival.

WION Silver Screen: Joker wins the Golden Lion Award in 76th Venice film festival

Dark drama "Joker" about the origins of the villainous character won the Golden Lion award at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joaquin-phoenix-starrer-joker-gets-eight-minute-standing-ovation-at-venice-film-festival-247145">Venice Film Festival</a> on Saturday, while Roman Polanski's military drama about France's notorious Dreyfus affair took the runner-up prize.

Joaquin Phoenix, who won rave reviews at the festival, plays DC Comics superhero Batman's nemesis, and the story follows his transformation from vulnerable loner to confident villain.

"Joker" distances itself from typical superhero films, with sombre lighting and dark music throughout.

"I want to thank Warner Bros and DC for stepping out of their comfort zone and taking such a bold swing on me and this movie," director Todd Phillips said in his acceptance speech, also thanking Phoenix for trusting him with his "insane talent".

"There is no movie without Joaquin Phoenix ... Joaquin is the fiercest and bravest and most open-minded lion that I know."

The film was generating awards buzz even before Venice. The festival is considered a launch pad for the awards season, having premiered Oscar winners like "Roma" and "Birdman".

In a surprise move, Polanski's "An Officer and a Spy" took the Silver Lion Grand Jury Prize.

At a time of #MeToo and with only two female directors out of 21 in the competition line-up, festival organisers had faced criticism for including Polanski's work in the programme due to renewed controversy over his conviction for a sex crime.

They defended the move, saying it was the film, not the man, being judged. Jury member Paolo Virzi told a news conference the judges had solely focused on the movie in their discussions.

Polanski pleaded guilty in 1977 to having unlawful sex with a 13-year-old girl in Los Angeles. He fled the United States in 1978 for fear a deal for leniency with prosecutors would be overruled and he would get a lengthy prison term. Aged 86, he now lives in Europe.

The French-Polish director, who was expelled from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences last year, did not travel to Venice. His wife Emmanuelle Seigner, who stars in the film, collected the award on his behalf.

"He is very happy and I am convinced this is a very important movie for him, it will give him a lot," she told reporters.

Asked how she felt about those critical of the film's festival inclusion, Seigner told Reuters: "We won, that's the most important thing."

Migrant crisis

Italian actor Luca Marinelli won best actor for his portrayal of a poor, aspiring writer in "Martin Eden". France's Ariane Ascaride won best actress for "Gloria Mundi" in which she plays a mother desperate to help her cash-strapped family.

Both referenced the migrant crisis in their speeches.

"This prize is for all who sleep for eternity at the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea," Ascaride said.

Marinelli dedicated his to "the incredible people who are at sea rescuing other humans fleeing unimaginable situations".

Best director went to Sweden's Roy Andersson for "About Endlessness", a mix of short stories of kindness and cruelty.

Italian director Franco Maresca won the Special Jury Prize for satirical documentary film "Mafia Is No Longer What It Used to Be".

Best screenplay went to Chinese filmmaker Yonfan for the animation "No. 7 Cherry Lane", a romance set in 1960s Hong Kong.

"I am really excited ... people always complain that my movies (have a) lack of drama and the writing is not good. Today I got the best script (award)," he said.

"American Skin" by Nate Parker, whose inclusion in the festival was also a talking point, triumphed outside the official competition, taking the Filming Italy Award for Best Film of the Sconfini Section.

Parker's 2016 movie "Birth of a Nation", stumbled after renewed public interest in a 1999 rape charge against the filmmaker, of which he was acquitted.

Dark drama "Joker" about the origins of the villainous character won the Golden Lion award at the Venice Film Festival on Saturday, while Roman Polanski's military drama about France's notorious Dreyfus affair took the runner-up prize.

Dark drama "Joker" about the origins of the villainous character won the Golden Lion award at the Venice Film Festival on Saturday, while Roman Polanski's military drama about France's notorious Dreyfus affair took the runner-up prize. Joaquin Phoenix, who won rave reviews at the festival, plays DC Comics superhero Batman's nemesis, and the story follows his transformation from vulnerable loner to confident villain. "Joker" distances itself from typical superhero films, with sombre lighting and dark music throughout. "I want to thank Warner Bros and DC for stepping out of their comfort zone and taking such a bold swing on me and this movie," director Todd Phillips said in his acceptance speech, also thanking Phoenix for trusting him with his "insane talent". "There is no movie without Joaquin Phoenix ... Joaquin is the fiercest and bravest and most open-minded lion that I know." The film was generating awards buzz even before Venice. The festival is considered a launch pad for the awards season, having premiered Oscar winners like "Roma" and "Birdman". In a surprise move, Polanski's "An Officer and a Spy" took the Silver Lion Grand Jury Prize. At a time of #MeToo and with only two female directors out of 21 in the competition line-up, festival organisers had faced criticism for including Polanski's work in the programme due to renewed controversy over his conviction for a sex crime. They defended the move, saying it was the film, not the man, being judged. Jury member Paolo Virzi told a news conference the judges had solely focused on the movie in their discussions. Polanski pleaded guilty in 1977 to having unlawful sex with a 13-year-old girl in Los Angeles. He fled the United States in 1978 for fear a deal for leniency with prosecutors would be overruled and he would get a lengthy prison term. Aged 86, he now lives in Europe. The French-Polish director, who was expelled from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences last year, did not travel to Venice. His wife Emmanuelle Seigner, who stars in the film, collected the award on his behalf. "He is very happy and I am convinced this is a very important movie for him, it will give him a lot," she told reporters. Asked how she felt about those critical of the film's festival inclusion, Seigner told Reuters: "We won, that's the most important thing." Migrant crisis Italian actor Luca Marinelli won best actor for his portrayal of a poor, aspiring writer in "Martin Eden". France's Ariane Ascaride won best actress for "Gloria Mundi" in which she plays a mother desperate to help her cash-strapped family. Both referenced the migrant crisis in their speeches. "This prize is for all who sleep for eternity at the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea," Ascaride said. Marinelli dedicated his to "the incredible people who are at sea rescuing other humans fleeing unimaginable situations". Best director went to Sweden's Roy Andersson for "About Endlessness", a mix of short stories of kindness and cruelty. Italian director Franco Maresca won the Special Jury Prize for satirical documentary film "Mafia Is No Longer What It Used to Be". Best screenplay went to Chinese filmmaker Yonfan for the animation "No. 7 Cherry Lane", a romance set in 1960s Hong Kong. "I am really excited ... people always complain that my movies (have a) lack of drama and the writing is not good. Today I got the best script (award)," he said. "American Skin" by Nate Parker, whose inclusion in the festival was also a talking point, triumphed outside the official competition, taking the Filming Italy Award for Best Film of the Sconfini Section. Parker's 2016 movie "Birth of a Nation", stumbled after renewed public interest in a 1999 rape charge against the filmmaker, of which he was acquitted.

'Joker' wins Golden Lion at Venice, Polanski drama is runner-up

As the Warner Bros’ ‘Joker’ saw its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/critics-applaud-joaquin-phoenix-starrer-joker-as-it-premieres-at-venice-film-festival-247134">world premiere at the Venice Film Festival </a>while competing in a category, the reviewers sat still so as to not miss any of that magic on the screen. Starring Joaquin Phoenix in Todd Philips directorial, the film gives a new meaning to DC’s biggest villain.&nbsp;

As the film ended, it got an eight-minute standing ovation amid shouts of “Bravo!” at its conclusion.

The response to the film also predicts a nod for Joaquin in Best Actor category of Oscars 2020.&nbsp;

2019 ‘Joker’ is different than its original as it stands in a unique standalone story that introduces Joaquin as Arthur Fleck, a man struggling to find his way in Gotham’s fractured society. A clown-for-hire by day, he aspires to be a stand-up comic at night, but finds the joke always seems to be on him.&nbsp;

Caught in an existential-style crisis between apathy and cruelty, Arthur makes one bad decision that brings about a chain reaction of escalating events.

Meanwhile, the director described his take on Arthur at the festival as “a guy who is searching for identity who mistakenly becomes a symbol. His goal genuinely is to make people laugh and bring joy to the world.”&nbsp;

He also mentioned earlier that his film is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joaquin-phoenix-starrer-joker-not-inspired-from-dc-comics-reveals-director-todd-phillips-234515">different from DC’s villain’s story</a>.&nbsp;

‘Joker’ will release on October 2.&nbsp;

As the Warner Bros’ ‘Joker’ saw its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival while competing in a category, the reviewers sat still so as to not miss any of that magic on the screen.

As the Warner Bros’ ‘Joker’ saw its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival while competing in a category, the reviewers sat still so as to not miss any of that magic on the screen. Starring Joaquin Phoenix in Todd Philips directorial, the film gives a new meaning to DC’s biggest villain. As the film ended, it got an eight-minute standing ovation amid shouts of “Bravo!” at its conclusion. The response to the film also predicts a nod for Joaquin in Best Actor category of Oscars 2020. 2019 ‘Joker’ is different than its original as it stands in a unique standalone story that introduces Joaquin as Arthur Fleck, a man struggling to find his way in Gotham’s fractured society. A clown-for-hire by day, he aspires to be a stand-up comic at night, but finds the joke always seems to be on him. Caught in an existential-style crisis between apathy and cruelty, Arthur makes one bad decision that brings about a chain reaction of escalating events. Meanwhile, the director described his take on Arthur at the festival as “a guy who is searching for identity who mistakenly becomes a symbol. His goal genuinely is to make people laugh and bring joy to the world.” He also mentioned earlier that his film is different from DC’s villain’s story. ‘Joker’ will release on October 2.

Joaquin Phoenix starrer 'Joker' gets eight-minute standing ovation at Venice Film Festival

Joaquin Phoenix starrer ‘Joker’ made its way to the ongoing Venice Film Festival as it had its world premiere at the world’s oldest festival and opened for the first time to movie enthusiasts. As expected, the critics were in awe of the film that takes a film noir approach to tell the story of the world’s most mysterious and most loved negative character as Joaquin gives a new meaning to clown-gone-wrong plot.&nbsp;

One of the darkest villains from DC history made everyone relive the magic at the film festival as Joaquin stunned one and all, according to most first reviews. Directed by Todd Philips, ‘Joker’ shows the dark transformation of a loner named Arthur Fleck into the criminal mastermind everyone knows him as today. Meanwhile, Todd has revealed that&nbsp;'Joker' is not inspired from DC comics.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joaquin-phoenix-starrer-joker-not-inspired-from-dc-comics-reveals-director-todd-phillips-234515"> Read about it here.&nbsp;</a>

Watch teaser-trailer here:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/t433PEQGErc" width="560"></iframe>

In a Variety review, ‘Joker’ is described as though it "manages the nimble feat of telling the Joker's story as if it were unprecedented." "Many have asked, and with good reason: Do we need another Joker movie? Yet what we do need badly are comic-book films that have a verité gravitas, that unfold in the real world, so that there’s something more dramatic at stake than whether the film in question is going to rack up a billion-and-a-half dollars worldwide.”&nbsp;

The Guardian meanwhile wrote, "Having brazenly plundered the films of Scorsese, Phillips fashions stolen ingredients into something new, so that what began as a gleeful cosplay session turns progressively more dangerous and somehow more relevant, too."

Watch the last trailer here:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="384" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zAGVQLHvwOY" width="683"></iframe>

‘Joker’ will hit the screens on October 4.

Joaquin Phoenix starrer ‘Joker’ made its way to the ongoing Venice Film Festival as it had its world premiere at the world’s oldest festival and opened for the first time to movie enthusiasts.

Joaquin Phoenix starrer ‘Joker’ made its way to the ongoing Venice Film Festival as it had its world premiere at the world’s oldest festival and opened for the first time to movie enthusiasts. As expected, the critics were in awe of the film that takes a film noir approach to tell the story of the world’s most mysterious and most loved negative character as Joaquin gives a new meaning to clown-gone-wrong plot. One of the darkest villains from DC history made everyone relive the magic at the film festival as Joaquin stunned one and all, according to most first reviews. Directed by Todd Philips, ‘Joker’ shows the dark transformation of a loner named Arthur Fleck into the criminal mastermind everyone knows him as today. Meanwhile, Todd has revealed that 'Joker' is not inspired from DC comics. Read about it here. Watch teaser-trailer here: In a Variety review, ‘Joker’ is described as though it "manages the nimble feat of telling the Joker's story as if it were unprecedented." "Many have asked, and with good reason: Do we need another Joker movie? Yet what we do need badly are comic-book films that have a verité gravitas, that unfold in the real world, so that there’s something more dramatic at stake than whether the film in question is going to rack up a billion-and-a-half dollars worldwide.” The Guardian meanwhile wrote, "Having brazenly plundered the films of Scorsese, Phillips fashions stolen ingredients into something new, so that what began as a gleeful cosplay session turns progressively more dangerous and somehow more relevant, too." Watch the last trailer here: ‘Joker’ will hit the screens on October 4.

Critics applaud Joaquin Phoenix starrer 'Joker' as it premieres at Venice Film Festival

It is finally confirmed! Long-time lovers Joaquin Phoenix and Rooney Mara have decided to take their relationship to the next level, the two are now engaged! The news comes about two months after Phoenix (44) and Mara (34) sparked speculation about moving forward with their relationship.&nbsp; 
 
In May, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/are-rooney-mara-and-joaquin-phoenix-engaged-222626">Mara was spotted wearing a dazzling diamond ring </a>on her engagement finger.&nbsp; 
 
The viral photo gave birth to rumours that the two might be engaged. 
 
The `Joker` star and the `The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo` actress first met in 2016 on the sets of `Mary Magdalene`.&nbsp; 
 
The two were reportedly seen spending some quality time together on and offsets while shooting for the film. 
 
The two made their red carpet debut as a couple in May 2017 at the Cannes Film Festival. 
 
"They were talking to one another nonstop. Small talk between them. Then they went for their car and he`s holding her hand like it was unconscious. Like it fits. They seem a totally natural and easy couple," a source told People at that time.&nbsp;

It is finally confirmed! Long-time lovers Joaquin Phoenix and Rooney Mara have decided to take their relationship to the next level, the two are now engaged! The news comes about two months after Phoenix (44) and Mara (34) sparked speculation about moving forward with their relationship.

It is finally confirmed! Long-time lovers Joaquin Phoenix and Rooney Mara have decided to take their relationship to the next level, the two are now engaged! The news comes about two months after Phoenix (44) and Mara (34) sparked speculation about moving forward with their relationship. In May, Mara was spotted wearing a dazzling diamond ring on her engagement finger. The viral photo gave birth to rumours that the two might be engaged. The `Joker` star and the `The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo` actress first met in 2016 on the sets of `Mary Magdalene`. The two were reportedly seen spending some quality time together on and offsets while shooting for the film. The two made their red carpet debut as a couple in May 2017 at the Cannes Film Festival. "They were talking to one another nonstop. Small talk between them. Then they went for their car and he`s holding her hand like it was unconscious. Like it fits. They seem a totally natural and easy couple," a source told People at that time.

Joaquin Phoenix and Rooney Mara are now engaged!

DC comic fans across the world are waiting eagerly for the standalone film 'Joker' featuring Joaquin Phoenix. The film which is set to narrate Joker's side of the story is though not based on the comics. The upcoming flick movie will be a wholly original take on the iconic Gotham villain. 
 
In a recent interview, the director of the film, Todd Phillips, ruled out the possibility of the film being based on the comics. "We didn`t follow anything from the comic books, which people are gonna be mad about," writer-director Todd Phillips told Empire. "We just wrote our own version of where a guy like Joker might come from. That`s what was interesting to me. We`re not even doing Joker, but the story of becoming Joker. It`s about this man," he added. 
 
His comments seem to slam all the fan speculations that the movie might follow portions of Alan Moore and Brian Bolland`s legendary comic titled `Batman: The Killing Joke`, that featured the origin story for the Clown Prince of Crime.&nbsp; 
 
The comic told the story of an aspiring comedian whose mob dealings eventually land him into a vat of chemicals at the hands of Batman. Although the trailer, which released on April 3, may have appeared close to the source material, Phillips said that the narrative will be completely different.

Phillips also stated that his team has full faith in Phoenix`s ability to make the role his own. The `Walk the Line` actor was his first choice to play the character of Joker."I think he`s the greatest actor. We had a photo of him above our computer while we were writing. We constantly thought, `God, imagine if Joaquin actually does this`," Phillips said. 
 
The psychological thriller will feature Joaquin as the classic bad boy of the DC universe. The chilling first trailer of the crime drama gives the audience the first look at Phoenix`s character, a clown and comedian from Gotham who seems to have fallen on hard times. The trailer also gives a sneak peek into his enthralling transformation from Phoenix`s character Arthur to Joker. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joaquin-phoenix-takes-up-the-classic-villains-role-in-joker-trailer-207730">In the trailer,</a> he can be seen trying out different Joker outfits, before finally dying his hair green and featuring in his signature costume. The fascinating trailer also gives a glimpse of some of the most dramatic moments in the film. The dialogue `put on a happy face` is enough to remind the viewers of the creepiness related to the character of Joker.&nbsp;

Apart from Phoenix essaying the titular role, the film will also star Dante Pereira-Olson, who will play the young Bruce Wayne, and Douglas Hodge, who will essay the role of the butler Alfred Pennyworth. The psychological drama also stars veteran Robert De Niro and Marc Maron of `Deadpool 2` fame. 
 
The film follows the origin of Batman`s most notorious enemy as he transforms from a struggling stand-up comedian to a full-blown criminal. The film is scheduled to hit the big screens on October 4, 2019.&nbsp; 
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DC comic fans across the world are waiting eagerly for the standalone film 'Joker' featuring Joaquin Phoenix. The film which is set to narrate Joker's side of the story is though not based on the comics.

DC comic fans across the world are waiting eagerly for the standalone film 'Joker' featuring Joaquin Phoenix. The film which is set to narrate Joker's side of the story is though not based on the comics. The upcoming flick movie will be a wholly original take on the iconic Gotham villain. In a recent interview, the director of the film, Todd Phillips, ruled out the possibility of the film being based on the comics. "We didn`t follow anything from the comic books, which people are gonna be mad about," writer-director Todd Phillips told Empire. "We just wrote our own version of where a guy like Joker might come from. That`s what was interesting to me. We`re not even doing Joker, but the story of becoming Joker. It`s about this man," he added. His comments seem to slam all the fan speculations that the movie might follow portions of Alan Moore and Brian Bolland`s legendary comic titled `Batman: The Killing Joke`, that featured the origin story for the Clown Prince of Crime. The comic told the story of an aspiring comedian whose mob dealings eventually land him into a vat of chemicals at the hands of Batman. Although the trailer, which released on April 3, may have appeared close to the source material, Phillips said that the narrative will be completely different. Phillips also stated that his team has full faith in Phoenix`s ability to make the role his own. The `Walk the Line` actor was his first choice to play the character of Joker."I think he`s the greatest actor. We had a photo of him above our computer while we were writing. We constantly thought, `God, imagine if Joaquin actually does this`," Phillips said. The psychological thriller will feature Joaquin as the classic bad boy of the DC universe. The chilling first trailer of the crime drama gives the audience the first look at Phoenix`s character, a clown and comedian from Gotham who seems to have fallen on hard times. The trailer also gives a sneak peek into his enthralling transformation from Phoenix`s character Arthur to Joker. In the trailer, he can be seen trying out different Joker outfits, before finally dying his hair green and featuring in his signature costume. The fascinating trailer also gives a glimpse of some of the most dramatic moments in the film. The dialogue `put on a happy face` is enough to remind the viewers of the creepiness related to the character of Joker. Apart from Phoenix essaying the titular role, the film will also star Dante Pereira-Olson, who will play the young Bruce Wayne, and Douglas Hodge, who will essay the role of the butler Alfred Pennyworth. The psychological drama also stars veteran Robert De Niro and Marc Maron of `Deadpool 2` fame. The film follows the origin of Batman`s most notorious enemy as he transforms from a struggling stand-up comedian to a full-blown criminal. The film is scheduled to hit the big screens on October 4, 2019.

Joaquin Phoenix starrer 'Joker' not inspired from DC comics, reveals director Todd Phillips

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