Top 5 Joaquin Phoenix movies that totally negate his Joker aura

Joaquin Phoenix's movies consist of several titles that showcase the acting chops of the actor. He started his career in the early 1980s and appeared in television shows. The 1986 sci-fi adventure film SpaceCamp turned out to be his breakthrough role in Hollywood.

This was followed by several films in a career that has spanned several decades. Because of the size of his acting career, it might be tough to figure out what to watch. Lately, his persona as Joker has eclipsed his other roles.

Here is a list of five Joaquin Phoenix movies that negate his role as Joker.

5 Joaquin Phoenix movies that are the opposite of his Joker persona

5) The Master (2012)

The Master is a psychological drama film by Paul Thomas Anderson, and it features Phoenix as a US Navy veteran who served in World War II. He is slowly drawn into a movement named the Cause. His performance oozes fatigue and confusion as a man trying to understand his situation. Don't miss it if you enjoy nuanced performances. The film is available on Peacock and Lionsgate Play.

4) Gladiator (2000)

This list of Joaquin Phoenix movies won't be complete without mentioning Gladiator. It is easily one of the most popular films in his career and stars him as the power-hungry Commodus. It is a more layered character compared to the Joker. The character will go to any extent to win and get what he wants. Phoenix manages to create an atmosphere, hiding his subdued malevolence under a childish demeanour. The film can be enjoyed on Prime Video.

3) Hotel Rwanda (2004)

Hotel Rwanda features Joaquin Phoenix in the supporting role of Jack Daglish. The character was loosely modeled on the real-life Polish peacekeeper Stefan Steć. Based on the 1994 Rwandan genocide, the film features Phoenix trying to save as many lives as he can. Unlike most of his roles, this film shows the tender and composed side of his performance. Hotel Rwanda can be streamed on Apple TV.

2) You Were Never Really Here (2017)

Possibly one of the most overlooked Joaquin Phoenix movies, You Were Never Really Here blends psychological thriller and neo noir elements. He portrays a disturbed mercenary hired to find a politician's daughter abducted by human traffickers. Phoenix perfectly balances the brutal and violent side of his character with softness and vulnerability. Don't miss it on Amazon Prime Video.

1) Her (2013)

In Her, Phoenix plays a character that negates his role in Joker. This sci-fi romantic drama showcases him playing a lonely man in a near future. He is feeling sad because of his divorce, and to fill that void, he starts talking to an AI, only to fall in love with it. Phoenix proves his versatility with this role as he immerses himself into the tenderness of this character. Her can be viewed on Lionsgate Play.

The list showcases the range Phoenix has as an actor, as he can play all kinds of characters with ease. Which of these Joaquin Phoenix movies is your favorite?