Joaquin Phoenix's Joker Portrayal is Already Generating Oscar Buzz

Appearing in cinemas in just over two months, Todd Phillips’ Joker is poised to offer a fresh take on the classic character and to offer further insight on DC’s continuing film ventures. Though there has been limited information about the film and its star Joaquin Phoenix beyond the trailer, new reports indicate that the actor’s portrayal may be worthy of an Oscar.

According to ComicBook.com, entertainment journalist Erick Weber shared earlier this week that one of his sources had seen Joker, adding that "Joaquin Phoenix ‘will be nominated’ for #Oscars2020 Best Actor [for his] 'dark, disturbing & unforgettable' portrayal."

Though the film does not hit theaters until October, it will premiere at the Venice Film Festival that runs between Aug. 28 and Sept. 7--and festival artistic chief Alberto Barbera also expressed confidence in the film. In an interview with Variety, he shared that Joker is, "the most surprising film we’ve got this year…This one’s going straight to the Oscars even though it’s gritty, dark, violent. It has amazing ambition and scope."

Phillips has previously shared that the film was inspired more directly by Robert De Niro crime films like King of Comedy and Taxi Driver, both that have protagonists who suffer dark descents into madness. As such, it is not expected to directly tie-in to the Batman of the DC Extended Universe.

While we can’t be sure about this Oscar buzz until the film’s premiere, we’re certainly excited to see what it has to offer--if Joker is as good as sources say, we’re eager to see it. It hits theaters on Oct. 4.