The short answer is that there is one canonical theatrical feature film focused on the Joker as the primary protagonist: Todd Phillips’ 2019 “Joker,” starring Joaquin Phoenix. Outside of that main entry, other DC adaptations and animated features include Joker appearances, but they are not standalone “Joker films.” This guide lists and differentiates the core standalone theatrical films, animated works, and major cameos to clarify the landscape for viewers navigating the broader DC universe.
Defining a Canonical Joker Film
In this breakdown, a canonical Joker film is defined as a feature-length narrative work in which the Joker is the central protagonist and the story is built around his character, motivations, and arc. Cameo appearances, ensemble casts where the Joker is a supporting figure, and animated anthology entries do not meet this threshold for a standalone Joker film. Using this lens, the number remains small, because most appearances occur within larger superhero franchises or anthology formats that shift focus away from the Clown Prince of Crime. The following sections map theatrical features, animated works, and notable cameos to provide a precise status clarification.
Core Theatrical Joker Feature Film
As of now, only one theatrical feature film places the Joker at the absolute center of the narrative: “Joker” (2019). Directed by Todd Phillips and starring Joaquin Phoenix, the film is an original character study set in a grimier, more realistic version of Gotham. It earned substantial critical and commercial success, winning multiple Academy Awards and establishing a definitive on-screen portrait of the character’s origin. This singular film anchors any discussion about the total number of true Joker-led features and serves as the baseline reference for comparing other appearances.
Key Details of “Joker” (2019)
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Joker | Official release |
| Release Year | 2019 | Studio announcement |
| Director | Todd Phillips | Credits |
| Lead Actor | Joaquin Phoenix | Casting records |
| Runtime | 122 minutes | MPAA listing |
| Box Office (Worldwide) | Approximately $1 billion | Box office reporting |
| Major Awards | Golden Lion, Academy Award for Best Actor | Festival and academy records |
Animated and Television Appearances
While no additional theatrical features center entirely on the Joker, the character appears in multiple animated and television productions. These are typically part of anthology series, direct-to-video features, or long-form animated narratives. Importantly, these entries do not constitute standalone “Joker films,” but they provide substantial insight into the character’s breadth across DC media. Collectively, they demonstrate the Joker’s persistent presence beyond the singular live-action origin story.
Notable Animated Works Featuring the Joker
- “Batman: The Killing Joke” (2016) – A direct-to-video adaptation that gives the Joker significant screen time, but functions as an ensemble Batman story rather than a Joker-centric feature.
- “Batman: Under the Red Hood” (2010) – Features the Joker prominently within a broader Batman narrative, not as the sole protagonist.
- “Justice League vs. the Fatal Five” (2019) – Includes a brief animated segment with the Joker appearing alongside other DC villains, presented as an anthology episode.
Major Live-Action Cameos and Ensemble Features
Several live-action films and television episodes include the Joker, but in a supporting or cameo capacity within larger ensemble casts. These appearances, while notable, do not qualify as standalone Joker films according to the protagonist-centered definition established earlier. They reflect the character’s integration into the wider DC Extended Universe and shared continuity, rather than dedicated explorations of his story.
Cameo and Supporting Appearances
| Appearance | Context | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| “Suicide Squad” (2016) | Brief cameo in mid-credits scene | Film credits and studio notes |
| “The Dark Knight” (2008) | Recurring presence, portrayed by multiple actors | Film credits |
| “Batman” (1989) | Supporting role within a Batman-led film | Film credits |
| Television cameo in “Batwoman” (S1E3) | Voice and likeness cameo | Episode credits |
Common Misconceptions and Clarifications
Misunderstandings often arise because the Joker exists in numerous adaptations, cameos, and reinterpretations. Some assume every Batman film that features the character counts as a “Joker film,” yet this conflates ensemble storytelling with a protagonist-focused narrative. Others may believe unreleased projects or rumored pitches are official entries; these remain speculative until formally announced and completed. By distinguishing between protagonist-led features and supporting or anthology appearances, this guide clarifies what truly counts as a dedicated Joker film today and how to interpret announcements about future projects.
Status and Future Outlook
Currently, the status is clear: one completed, canonical Joker feature film exists in live-action theaters. Future projects could alter this count if a studio greenlights another Joker-led theatrical narrative with the character as the undisputed protagonist. As of now, announcements for additional live-action Joker films have not progressed to production, leaving the present total unchanged. This stable baseline supports long-term discussion about the character’s film presence and helps set accurate expectations for audiences seeking more Joker-centric stories.