LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Renowned director Ridley Scott has shared his candid thoughts on 2019 blockbuster 'Joker,' and it's a complex blend of admiration and reservations.
While Scott has been effusive in his praise for Joaquin Phoenix's transformative portrayal of Arthur Fleck, he did express some reservations about the film's overall messaging and portrayal of violence.
Mixed feelings on 'Joker'
Despite earning acclaim for Hildur Guonadottir's evocative score and Phoenix's Oscar-winning portrayal of Arthur Fleck, Todd Phillips' 'Joker' received a mixed reception, reflected in its 69% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Many critics took issue with the film's perceived glorification of Fleck's acts of violence.
Scott, who recently collaborated with Phoenix on 'Napoleon,' didn't mince words in an interview with Deadline. He applauded Phoenix's portrayal, saying, "I was blown away by his outrageous film 'Joker.' I didn't like the way it celebrated violence, but Joaquin was remarkable."
This endorsement led to Phoenix's casting in 'Napoleon,' a decision that Scott believes will be a creative and commercial boon.
"I thought he’d be an amazing asset to Napoleon, [not only creatively] also in a commercial sense. There were only two actors I had in mind for the role. I won’t mention the other one,” Scott said.
In an earlier statement to Empire magazine, Scott revealed his inspiration for casting Phoenix, saying, “I’m staring at Joaquin and saying, ‘This little demon is Napoleon Bonaparte.’ He looks like him.”
Internet disagrees with Ridley Scott's perspective
While Scott's stature in the film industry is undeniable, his perspective on 'Joker' didn't sit well with internet denizens. Social media was abuzz with users offering their own takes on his comments.
One user wrote, "Bro completely missed the point," while another questioned, "What did he expect a villain to celebrate?"
"Did he not understand the movie?" another user remarked.
Some comments were more scathing, with one user dismissing Scott's opinion, saying, "We don't care if he liked it or not. 'Joker' is an all-time movie." Another quipped, "Ridley nowadays talking too much."
Upcoming projects and Paul Mescal collaboration
Scott's upcoming project, 'Napoleon', featuring Vanessa Kirby, will delve into the life of the iconic French leader Napoleon Bonaparte.
Notably, Scott revealed the existence of an extended version of the film, surpassing its planned 158-minute theatrical cut, promising an even deeper exploration of the historical figure.
In addition to 'Napoleon,' Scott is set to direct a sequel to his 2000 epic 'Gladiator.' Paul Mescal is set to star as Lucius, the nephew of Phoenix's character, Emperor Commodus, from the original film.
Scott's decision to cast Mescal came after he was captivated by the actor's performance in 'Normal People.'
Meanwhile, the 'Joker' saga continues with a sequel titled 'Joker: Folie à Deux.' Phoenix will reprise his role as the titular character, while Lady Gaga joins the cast as Harley Quinn.
Alongside returning stars Phoenix and Zazie Beetz, the film will feature Brendan Gleeson, Catherine Keener, Jacob Lofland, and Harry Lawtey.
As Scott navigates his latest projects and the entertainment world anticipates more cinematic gems, the debate over 'Joker' and its portrayal of violence continues to spark fiery discussions on social media.
