Now we officially know that DC does not have an issue licensing Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker for action figures. Given its aimed-at-adults spin and general lack of high-concept, “toyetic” material, Todd Phillips’ take on Gotham City and Joaquin Phoenix’s ultra-serious turn as Arthur Fleck wasn’t a sure thing for any merchandise. But with record grosses, a sequel on the way, and an Oscar for Phoenix, the only things that might have stood in the way were DC Comics and Phoenix himself — obstacles that have clearly been negotiated.
Arthur Gonna Be Weapons?
There’s more. The Hot Toys Joaquin Phoenix Joker comes with a gun, something Warner Bros. had banned for some years now. It’s why McFarlane Toys Joker figures always come with axes or knives instead. Yet, as we’ve seen recently, McFarlane was just allowed to make a Jonah Hex figure with firearms provided it was labeled “not a toy.” Does this Joker suggest an overall trend of a softening of the weapons stance? Maybe.
Arthur doesn’t just come with a gun but a cigarette too. More impressive, however, is the Murray Franklin Show diorama, complete with a chair, an opening curtain, and a light-up “Applause” sign. The likelihood of an actual Murray Franklin (Robert De Niro) figure seems slim, but perhaps some adventurous third-party companies will find a way between the lines.
For fans looking to spend a little extra, there will be an Artisan Edition version of this Joaquin Phoenix Joker also, which will feature implanted hair made of woolen strands. This version will be limited to 4,000 units and only available in select markets.
Neither version is up for grabs at Sideshow’s website, home of Hot Toys in the U.S., as of this writing. In the meantime, check out the scarily realistic official pics, and tell yourself you don’t want to buy it, the interest for you isn’t there…until you’re tired of pretending it’s not!
