JOKER represents a new direction for the DC Cinema Extended Universe. Joaquin Phoenix plays the title role in this gritty origin story of the clown prince of crime. Yet unlike the special effects driven comic book based movies of the past, this feature film seems razor-focused on character development. In short, the actors’ performances are the special effects. Joaquin Phoenix’s decision to take on the title role in JOKER bodes well for what may well be a potential Oscar worthy tale. The latest teaser trailer will only elevate the hype.