The Amazing Spider-ManandTick, Tick… Boom!star Andrew Garfield has finally responded to the comments people have been making about him potentially playingJokerin an upcoming live-actionBatmanproject. Right now there’s speculation as to who will be playing theJokerfor the current Batman (Robert Pattinson) and fans have named a lot of contenders.
As fans know, Garfield portrayedSpider-Manfor two films in Sony’s first live-action reboot movies following Sam Raimi’s trilogy. While Garfield has opened up about theheartbreaking experience of playing Spider-Man, it appears his apprehension about taking on the role of the Joker has more to do with those who came before him.
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During an interview with GQ, Garfield responded to numerous questions, and one of them regarded his interest in playing the Joker. The actor has a talented skillset and can very well match the look for the iconic Clown Prince of Crime, so it’s no surprise that fans have had him on their casting list for a long time. Garfield, however, said he “wouldn’t go near [playing Joker],” before adding, “[It’s] sweet of you to think that it’s possible. But I don’t think I could ever do it because of what Heath [Ledger] did, what Jack Nicholson did. And, but then, of course, Joaquin [Phoenix] did his own genius thing.” While it may be disappointing for fans, it’s definitely admirable that the actor gives credit where it’s due.
Many of theactors who have played Jokerdove into the character in their own way, which makes it intimidating for those who may want to give the role a try. It can often feel like it’s big shoes to fill. Even if they do give it a shot, there are always fans out there who will compare each actor’s performance for better or worse, which can be very overwhelming for some people.
Garfield is one of many actors fans have picked as their choice to play the role.Kristen Stewart is another talentfans have asked to play the Joker, which would put a unique spin on the dynamic between the character and Batman. In a comic book story set in another timeline, Bruce Wayne’s mother was the Joker. However, since Bruce is alive in Pattinson’sThe Batman, it’s unlikely that this Joker will be his mom.
Fan castings often seem perfect on paper, but sometimes it gets in the way of the casting process. It can run the risk of making the creatives feel pressured to either accommodate or ignore the fans. They begin to ask themselves, ‘Do we give in and let people think they can cast roles in the future? Or do we say no and trust our instincts based on the candidates during the test shoots and casting process?’ Regardless, here’s to hoping whoever plays the Jokeropposite Pattinson’s Batmanis someone fans appreciate, regardless of where they stand on the previous actors.
