Joker, an origin story about one of DC Comics‘ iconic villains, has become the highest-grossing R-rated film of all time, taking over Marvel‘s Deadpool reign. It has been one of this year’s most talked-about films, with many demanding that Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal should earn him an Academy Award.
Directed by Todd Phillips, Joker follows the troubles of Arthur Fleck who fails at stand-up comedy and struggles to fit in. The trials and tribulations of Fleck make for some uncomfortable viewing at times and Phoenix’s dedication to the role is palpable as he is almost unrecognisable, especially as his significant weight loss is on display throughout the film.
Arthur eventually becomes the killer clown, famously known as Batman’s nemesis, and Phoenix really shines, dashing away any doubts that people may have had about him. You can read our review of the film here.
Despite critics and media claiming that the film glorifies violence, Joker broke box office records earlier this month with a $96 million opening in North America and now it has totally shattered global records. Originally filming with a small budget of $55 million, the film has now made roughly $788 million worldwide at the box office, making it the sixth highest-grossing film of 2019.
It is also now the highest-grossing R-rated film of all time, taking over 2016’s Deadpool which made $783 million worldwide. Actor Ryan Reynolds, who plays the foul-mouthed merc, took to social media to congratulate Phoenix in his own comedic way, much to the delight of fans.
R-Rated box office congratulatory posts aren’t like the ones you’re used to… pic.twitter.com/OTy2BqIP4f
— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) October 25, 2019
Joker has already won Venice Film Festival’s top prize, the Golden Lion, and many are wanting the Oscars to award Phoenix for his gritty, haunting portrayal. Chief analyst, Shawn Robbins, at Boxoffice.com told CNN Business:
“It would be really surprising if the Academy ignores Phoenix’s performance. Even though the film had a lot of divisive talk around it, one thing everyone seemingly agreed on was that Phoenix put in Oscar-caliber work.”
We totally agree and hope that Phoenix is awarded highly for his portrayal of a man let down by society.
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