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Joker crew member ‘quit’ because Joaquin Phoenix was so ‘difficult’ to work with

Actor is said to have often ‘disappeared’ while in the middle of having his makeup applied

Jacob Stolworthy
Sunday 05 January 2020 17:19 GMT
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Joker - Trailer 2

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Fresh details of Joaquin Phoenix’s intense acting style while working on Joker have come to light.

During a presentation ahead of tonight’s Golden Globes ceremony, at which Phoenix is one of the favourites to win Best Actor, the spotlight was reportedly placed on “the difficulty of working” with him on the film.

Last year, it was reported that Phoenix would randomly walk off set in the middle of takes, which director Todd Phillips revealed would often worry his co-stars.

It’s now been claimed that Phoenix would also walk off set while the film’s makeup team were trying to dye his hair in preparation for the shoot.

Will Mavity, co-host of Next Best Picture, tweeted that the presentation revealed he “fought to try and do all his makeup himself” because he “didn’t like being touched”.

It’s said to have gotten so tough to ensure his makeup looked right at all times that the crew member in charge of maintaining continuity quit the film.

Phoenix is claimed to have blamed his behaviour on being so hungry due to depriving himself of food in order to look skinny for the role.

The Independent has contacted a representative for Joaquin Phoenix for comment.

In September, Phoenix attended Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where he delivered an emotional speech crediting his late brother River for his successful career.

The actor is expected to earn his fourth Oscar nomination for Joker, which surpassed Deadpool to become the most successful R-rated film of all time.

Find a full list of the 2020 Golden Globe nominations here.

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