Joaquin Phoenix is in Talks to Play the Joker in Untitled Origin Film Variety reports that Phoenix has accepted the role. Director Todd Phillips, who has targeted Phoenix for the part since 2017, is also set to write the movie. According to insiders, Phoenix's version of the Joker won't impact Jared Leto's version and will instead operate outside of the current DC cinematic universe. Phoenix has been targeted for super hero movies before but passed on the opportunities.