A Look Back at Some of Joaquin Phoenix’s Iconic Film Roles

The ‘JOKER’ film has become the number one R-rated comic book movie to hit theaters this year. Joaquin Phoenix took on the role of the notorious comic book villain, The Joker, the famous foe of Batman in comic books and on screen.

While there have been many films based on Batman, there has never been a solo film of the maniacal Joker. When the film was announced last year, fans were perplexed by the concept story and wondered if Phoenix could re-imagine the Joker that has been done by Heath Ledger, Jack Nicholson and Jared Leto.

Unlike other films, ‘JOKER’ was solely based on the character and his supposed origin story, but with a twist. This version wouldn’t focus on Batman or the DC universe that he is always up against. The film takes on Arthur Fleck, a failing comedian with mental health issues who gets fed up with an ever-growing hopeless society. He slowly descends into madness and decides to longer put on a mask and makes the world truly see.

Phoenix is being highly praised for his acting and is considered his best work in the film of the year. Phoenix has a history accolades and characters he is known for. Phoenix played Commodus in Ridley Scott’s ‘Gladiator’. His portrayal of a ruthless character with the temper of a child, puts him on the list of notable villains. Phoenix brings a deeper portrayal of the character than anyone expected and it got him nominated for his first Oscar.

In 2002, he played Merrill in 'Signs'. He is the failed baseball player who serves as comedic relief in a science fiction horror film. Graham Hess (Mel Gibson) is an Episcopal priest who left his religion who, along with his brother Merrill, must protect his family from an alien invasion. Merrill provides some comedy but is serious when it comes to the film's emotional moments.

Some of his notable scenes are in the film ‘The Master’ (2012). Freddie Quell (Phoenix) is unable to cope in a post-war society and meets a man named Dodds.

Dodds is the leader of a movement called ‘The Cause’. Freddie follows Dodds in his teaching but starts to grow hostile unable to find a purpose or himself. The film creates some of Phoenix’s most powerful scenes in his career. You might also remember Phoenix in ‘Walk The Line’ (2002) as Johnny Cash that generated buzz as he portrayed the late musician. His acting and dynamic scenes with Reese Witherspoon as June Carter got both nominated for Oscars.