I think Joaquin Phoenix is the best possible alternative to heath ledger for the Joker role (that I can think of). I think he could be a terrifying joker. But not if the writing, directing, costume work, etc. suck. His face paint here looks stupid and goofy.

Never heard THAT before ....

Phoenix is one of the finest actors on the planet.

That's all I have to say about that.

I think the negative reaction to the makeup is that it's too far on the "circus clown" end of the spectrum. For example the red nose really makes it look silly, not maniacally sloppy like Ledger's or the evil simplicity of Nicholson's all-white face with thin red lips. Too much Ringling Brothers, if you ask me.

Well wasn't that what he was before? A failed entertainer? A clown?

I like the awkward makeup, reminds me of Jack Nicholson's Joker.

the DCEU is just 1 step forward and 10 steps back with every move they make. this looks terrible. you know those scenarios where you call something out for being terrible and immediately some sweaty guy tries to counter you with "so you think you could do better?" well in this case, before the sweaty guys get to me, yes, i honestly think i could have done a better job of designing the joker.

i was actually a bit excited for Aquaman, and a good deal excited for Shazam, but come on. this is not the work of a studio i would ever give my money to

looks more like one of the goons that works under Joker.

I remember reading comments like this about heath ledger's reveal. Heh. Given the recent track record of DC, it has every chance to be terrible. I just think I'll wait for the movie though. I'd prefer not to eat crow.

The hyperbole in this thread is hilarious.
This is just a test screening and the movie is a Joker origins film. He is a failed performer and his life is miserable. This is about his descent into becoming the Joker.
Also, the movie has not released yet. Judging something based on 8 seconds of test footage is quite frankly, ridiculous.