Following its premiere at 2019 Venice Film Festival, the reviews for Todd Phillips' Joker are pouring in, and they're very positive so far.
As of writing, Joker holds a 86% on Rotten Tomatoes among critics. As there are currently only 22 reviews being counted, this score may go up or down as the movie's release date draws closer. Joker is not yet "Certified Fresh," though this is definitely a strong opening for the solo movie, with Joaquin Phoenix's performance as Arthur Fleck/Joker being singled out for praise.
The upcoming Joker revolves around Arthur Fleck, a failed comedian trying to care for his mother. Eventually, the unrelenting cruelty of society compels him to turn to a life of crime and become the titular supervillain. The movie is said to be unlike any other comic book movie and will not adapt any specific stories. The movie is already garnering early Oscar buzz.
Directed by Todd Phillips, Joker stars Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz, Bill Camp, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Glenn Fleshler, Douglas Hodge, Marc Maron, Josh Pais and Shea Whigham. The film arrives in theaters Oct. 4.