Joker defied a lot of odds this weekend to open to a stellar $96.2 million at the box office this weekend. The opening set a new record for the month of October and probably felt like a bit of vindication for all involved given the film has met with polarizing headlines and critical reviews. One thing that seems like a sure bet is that Joker is likely to be an Oscar contender, especially for Joaquin Phoenix’s transformative performance in the title role. Other awards it could be up for are up in the air but a recent screening for Oscar voters on Saturday could give us some indication where their heads may be at on the film.
According to “Deadline”, Joker was shown to membership on Saturday night at the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theatre with an estimated turnout of around 700. The number of people was said to be confirmed by various people in attendance. One point made was that it wasn’t the 1,000+ turnout that some films get for viewing but it was a solid turnout considering this is not the film Oscar voters typically go for.
The reaction, according to those who were there, was said to be mixed and much like the critical reviews that have hit the film in the wake of its release (the film is currently 69% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes). A lot of the crowd was said to be younger than usual and they tended to give the film the most praise and applause. One member, according to “Deadline”, said this about the turnout and response they witnessed:
“Turnout was very good and reaction was as well. About three quarters full. Maybe 700. There were several walkouts, though. Good applause at the end.”
A lot of the applause came during the credits when several credits were shown, most notably Cinematographer, which is said to be a tech award that Joker is likely to nab a nomination for. Another member stated that many older members didn’t seem to like it but the younger crowd seemed to embrace it much more. Pretty much all in attendance praised Phoenix’s performance so it looks like his nomination chances in the Best Actor category are a sure thing. Best Picture seems to be in question, at least at this screening, but the season still underway and there is still time to get the film in front of more voters who should see it as a game-changer.
The response was then compared to the New York Academy members screening held for The Irishman at the MoMA screening room. That screening received near-universal praise, resulting in a standing ovation to director Martin Scorsese, star Robert De Niro, cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto, costume designer Sandy Powell and producer Jane Rosenthal, who all attended the post-screening Q&A. Whatever the case may be for Joker, it’s at least making this a very interesting awards season.
