Joaquin Phoenix Bags the Best Actor Award for Joker at Golden Globes

Joaquin Phoenix undoubtedly stole our hearts as he embraced the avatar of greatest villain Joker in the 2018 release. And yesterday night the remarkable performance was further validated in the form of a Golden Globes trophy as Phoenix bagged the best actor award.

It was, however, the Joker’s acceptance speech that made it to the evening’s highlights as a speech full of wisdom and, dare if we may say, expletives that aren’t a norm of the ceremony.

“There is no [expletive] best actor,” said the 45-year old as he acknowledged his fellow contenders for best actor category.

Phoenix in his speech also thanked his girlfriend Rooney Mara and Joker’s director Todd Phillips for putting up with him.

“I’m such a pain in the [expletive]. I cannot believe you put up with me,” he said with a chuckle.

While his speech left the audiences in fits for the genuineness, it was his approach to bring attention to climate change that elevated his words.

He went on to address the fires in Australia and the ongoing climate crisis, calling on Hollywood and his peers to do better.

“We don’t have to take private jets to Palm Springs […] I’ll try to do better, and I hope you will too,” said the Gladiator actor.

He went on to appreciate Hollywood Foreign Press – the event organizers – for “recognizing and acknowledging the link between animal agriculture and climate change” and serving vegan meals. “It’s a very bold move, making tonight plant-based,” added Phoenix.

Joaquin Phoenix at a number of points during his acceptance speech also tested the censors.

Phoenix’s win marks the second time he has won a Golden Globe. He won his first in 2006 for playing Johnny Cash in “Walk The Line.”