Buzz around the new Joker movie is growing even more with the first look at the character in full makeup. Joaquin Phoenix, Golden Globe and Grammy award winner, will star as “Arthur Fleck” (a.k.a. The Joker) in the Warner Bros. film. He and Warner Bros.’ Twitter have recently released a few photos from the set, and the look is surprising, to say the least.

Todd Philips Creates A Sinister Backstory For The Joker

Todd Philips, director of The Hangover and War Dogs, crafted the idea of a standalone Joker movie. This new film is set in New York in the 1970s and 80s before the Joker received his title and infamous reputation. Philips co-wrote and directs the film, which is rumored to be based on this 1980s dark comedy.

The Joker Is “King Of Comedy”

Very little has been leaked about the film or its plot, but several sources believe it is roughly based on Martin Scorsese’s 1982 film The King of Comedy. Robert De Niro was the lead in The King of Comedy and is now playing a role in the new Joker movie. Plus, several sources confirm that there is a comedy club in the new film, which was a central theme in the older film.

A New Direction Stemming From The DC Universe

Luckily for Todd Philips, this film is not related to other DC comic films. Because it follows no continuity with Suicide Squad or Batman v Superman, Philips can portray the character as he chooses, including the Joker’s evolving iconic makeup look. Philips chose a distinct makeup style for the Joker, one that’s less messy and more recognizable than other renditions.

Joaquin Phoenix Puts On His Best Face Forward

On Twitter Warner Bros. and actor Joaquin Phoenix debuted the latest Joker mask, which looks much more like traditional clown makeup than other previous portrayals of the villain. On Instagram, Phoenix posted a photo of himself in irrefutable clown makeup and suit, which gives us some hint as to the Joker’s backstory.

See New ‘Joker’ In 2019

Though there is still much to be discovered in this new film, fans are excited to see what Phoenix will do with the character. He has incredibly tough shoes to fill, as he is portraying a character best known by Jared Leto and Heath Ledger. The new movie comes out October 2019.