Joker 2: Joaquin Phoenix's Best Roles, Ranked

Key Takeaways

Phoenix delivers captivating performances across numerous roles, establishing himself as one of cinema’s best actors.
His portrayal of Theodore Twombly in “Her” showcases his raw talent, connecting with audiences on a deep emotional level.
From Emperor Commodus in “Gladiator” to his portrayal of the Joker, Phoenix showcases immense range and depth in every role he undertakes.

As a film enthusiast who has witnessed the evolution of cinematic artistry over the years, I must say that Joaquin Phoenix stands out as one of the most captivating and versatile actors of our time. His transformative performances in films such as Walk the Line, The Master, and Joker are nothing short of extraordinary.

The forthcoming premiere of “Joker: Folie à Deux” has once again shone the limelight on one of cinema’s most talented actors – the esteemed Joaquin Phoenix, who is known for his exceptional ability to transform into different characters. As a masterful actor and Academy Award winner, he is widely respected as one of the greatest performers of this generation. His captivating portrayals of numerous characters have earned him well-deserved acclaim.

Despite varying responses to certain characters he’s portrayed during his acting career, Joaquin Phoenix has delivered standout performances that have left a lasting impression in modern filmmaking. Be it as a ruthless Roman emperor, a troubled music mogul, or the chaotic Joker, Phoenix has earned recognition for his exceptional acting abilities. As he prepares to reprise his role as the Joker, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on some of his most impressive performances.

5 Her

Theodore Twombly

Joker 2: Joaquin Phoenix's Best Roles, Ranked

Directed by: Spike Jonze
Release Year: 2013

It takes a special kind of actor to get an audience invested in a relationship between a lonely introvert and a virtual assistant possessing artificial intelligence, let alone reducing them to emotional puddles by the time the credits roll. Taking on the role of Theodore Twombly, Phoenix’s turn in 2013’s Her is one of his most intimate, raw and heartwarming performances to date. He leverages his superb chemistry with co-star Scarlett Johansson to produce one of the most lauded offerings of the 2010s.

Phoenix captures an incredible range of human emotions throughout a movie where he is often the sole visual focus. His powerful take on Twombly has left audiences smiling, laughing and crying in equal measure ever since Spike Jonze’s seminal film debuted. The Academy’s egregious oversight in failing to nominate Phoenix for his performance left many viewers stunned.

4 Gladiator

Emperor Commodus

Directed by: Ridley Scott
Release Year: 2000

The initial Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor that went to Phoenix was for his role in the historical epic “Gladiator.” His portrayal of the character is considered one of his best performances yet. In this film, he plays the Roman emperor Commodus, a power-grabbing tyrant who takes over after killing his father, Marcus Aurelius, out of jealousy. He personifies immature wickedness throughout the storyline.

In the movie “Gladiator,” Joaquin Phoenix portrays the character of Commodus, who offers a compelling contrast to Russell Crowe’s powerful lead, Maximus. Commodus is a complex figure, combining insecurity with tyranny, and he is arguably one of the most unforgivable characters Phoenix has ever played on screen. Although he didn’t win an Oscar for this role, it is still widely regarded as one of his finest performances. In fact, “Gladiator” is considered one of the most celebrated films of the 2000s.

3 Walk The Line

Johnny Cash

Directed by: James Mangold
Release Year: 2005

2005 saw me, a humble gamer, being recognized for my first Academy Award nomination in the Best Actor category. This was all thanks to my gripping portrayal of the legendary singer-songwriter Johnny Cash in “Walk the Line.” This biopic took viewers on a journey through Cash’s climb in the music industry, his intricate relationships, and the battles he faced due to his substance abuse struggles.

For this role, Phoenix was tasked with portraying an endlessly layered musical titan. He nails every note as Cash, from his appearance down to his enigmatic personality. He even does an admirable job with his take on Cash’s iconic voice. Phoenix’s electric chemistry with his co-star Reese Witherspoon is a spectacle to behold. For his performance, he took home the Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. However, Phoenix found himself pipped to the Oscar by the late Philip Seymour Hoffman for his role in Capote.

2 The Master

Freddie Quell

Directed by: Paul Thomas Anderson
Release Year: 2012

Although his most renowned role might not be it, Phoenix’s Oscar-nominated act in “The Master” stands out as one of his best dramatic performances. This highly respected psychological drama by Paul Thomas Anderson follows the story of a war veteran who gets drawn into a puzzling cult and its captivating leader. Within this movie, Freddie Quell is the part played by Phoenix for the lead character.

Phoenix masterfully lays bare his character’s deep, troubling secrets with an authenticity that is chilling and awe-inspiring. His performance in every scene captivates the audience completely. The way he infuses his troubled character with vulnerability, desperation, and loneliness is a testament to exceptional acting skill. Although he lost the Oscar to Daniel Day Lewis for his role in Lincoln, Phoenix’s portrayal in The Master remains one of the most remarkable dramatic performances of the 21st century.

1 Joker

Arthur Fleck / The Joker

Directed by: Todd Phillips
Release Year: 2019

It appeared unlikely that any actor could match Heath Ledger’s iconic portrayal of the Joker from Batman. Comparing their performances might seem too simplistic due to the distinct differences between the movies and each actor’s unique interpretation of the character. Nevertheless, Joaquin Phoenix delivered an exceptional performance as Arthur Fleck in the 2019 film “Joker.

2024-09-26 09:33

Joker 2: Joaquin Phoenix’s Best Roles, Ranked