5. Cesar Romero
In “Joker” and “Joker: Folie à Deux,” Phoenix plays Arthur Fleck, a mentally ill comedian who becomes a serial killer, the Joker, as payback for how society treats him.
Many Joker actors get viewers on his side, make them laugh, or feel terrified, but Phoenix was the first to make fans feel sorry for the villain. Phoenix’s Joker laugh is so haunting because it almost feels like he is in pain.
Then, when Arthur transforms into the Joker, Phoenix’s persona completely flips. He becomes a menacing figure who treats the world like it’s his stage.
In short, Phoenix gives an incredible performance as the Joker, but he lacks mischief, unpredictability, and grandiosity. His Joker is all rage and sadness without the fascinating contrasts of joy and fun that make the character the clown prince of crime.