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Joker movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was Joker filmed?

2019

City Locations

New York City, New Jersey (USA)

Location Types

American, Apartment, House, Mansions, Storefront, Unusual, Cafe,

Location Styles

Art Deco, Buildings, Federal Buildings, Film Studios, Industrial, Neglected, Gothic, Theatres

About Joker

The movie Joker, released in 2019, is a psychological drama directed by Todd Phillips and produced by DC Films. It stars Joaquin Phoenix as the main character, the Joker, Zazie Beetz, Robert De Niro, and Frances Conroy in supporting roles. The story takes place in Gotham City in 1981 and follows Arthur Fleck's transformation into the Joker as he slowly loses his sanity. In 2016, Phillips devised the idea for the movie "Joker" and spent 2017 co-writing the script with Silver. They drew inspiration from character studies of the 1970s and the films of Martin Scorsese, specifically "Taxi Driver" (1976) and "The King of Comedy" (1982). Scorsese was initially involved in the project as a producer. Joker follows the story of Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix), an unsuccessful clown and comedian who falls into mental instability and a bleak outlook. This leads him to spark a violent uprising among the lower classes in Gotham City against the affluent upper class. Along his journey, he finds solace in an unexpected relationship with a single mother neighbor, Sophie Dumond, played by Zazie Beetz. Joker had its world premiere at the 76th Venice International Film Festival on August 31, 2019. It received an eight-minute standing ovation and critical acclaim for its dark humor, visual style, and Phoenix’s performance. It went on to win several accolades, including the Golden Lion award for Best Film at the festival. At the 77th Golden Globe Awards ceremony, Joker was nominated for Best Motion Picture - Drama but lost to 1917. Phoenix won Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Drama for his performance. "Joker" won two awards at the 92nd Academy Awards: Best Actor for Joaquin Phoenix and Best Original Score. The movie has been nominated for eleven awards, including Best Picture. This beats The Dark Knight's previous record of eight nominations for the most nominations received by a film based on a comic book, comic strip, or graphic novel.

Joker Locations

The production of Joker (2019) took advantage of locations from all over The New York Metro area to create the gritty world of Arthur Fleck. From Newark, NJ (home of Kenny's Music Shop) to Manhattanville and Yonkers in Westchester County, NY, viewers are guided through some of the city's darkest and most notorious areas. Most scenes were shot in Newark and Harlem, featuring many iconic landmarks. In Newark, buildings such as the disused Newark Paramount Theatre at 195 Market Street and Kenny's Music Shop at 199 Market Street are used to create an atmosphere reflective of a struggling economy. In Harlem, we see buildings such as 1150 Anderson Avenue at West 167th Street (with its famous steep flight of steps that caused much controversy). This is set against the backdrop of decaying infrastructure, with graffiti-covered walls and dilapidated buildings providing an ominous atmosphere for Arthur Fleck's story to unfold. A trip to these locations would be worthwhile for any fan looking to gain insight into how director Todd Phillips was able to recreate this unsettling yet mesmerizing world inhabited by Joaquin Phoenix's version of The Joker. Whether it be for photo opportunities or simply just taking a stroll down memory lane, you're sure to find something unique about each location that captures the essence of Joker.

Arthur Fleck dances in a clown costume scene in Joker

199 Market St, Newark, NJ

The opening scene shows Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) dancing with an 'Everything Must Go' sign in front of the disused Newark Paramount Theatre. This iconic scene from the movie, set against the backdrop of 199 Market Street and the empty store, Kenny's Music Shop, has become a symbol of Fleck's daily struggles. The street is full of hustle and bustle as he attempts to put on a show to attract some customers but ultimately fails, as his sign is snatched away. Arthur battles with severe depression, but he finds some hope in entertaining others and attempting to bring laughter to them. The scene was filmed on location at 199 Market Street in Newark, New Jersey, and features many iconic shots of both the exterior and interior spaces. The building is characterized by its exquisite architecture, with tall columns and Art Deco styling alluding to its former glory days before it became abandoned. Additionally, viewers can identify Arthur's distinctive checkered black, green, and red clown costume throughout this sequence. Visitors wishing to tour this site can find it easily located at 199 Market Street in Newark, New Jersey, near Prudential Center Arena. Visitors may take public transportation to Newark Penn Station, nearby, such as NJ Transit or Amtrak services. Alternatively, one can catch a bus or cab ride directly to 199 Market Street.

Penny and Arthur Fleck's apartment scene in Joker

1150 Anderson Ave, Bronx, NY

Arthur (Joaquin Phoenix) lives in a tall apartment with his sick mother, Penny (Frances Conroy). They have dinner together and watch a talk show by Murray Franklin (Robert De Niro). Arthur daydreams about being on the front and impressing Murray by sharing that he cares for his mom. In the fantasy, Murray invites Arthur on stage, and they hug like family. A few moments later, it is discovered that Penny was previously employed by Thomas Wayne (Brett Cullen) and is highly fixated on the wealthy man. She has been regularly sending him letters to improve their living conditions. This scene was shot at 1150 Anderson Ave, Bronx, which captures the atmosphere of a run-down urban environment and hints at some hope or aspiration within its decrepit walls. The location itself has become an iconic symbol associated with Joker, reminiscent of similar scenes from other well-known films such as Taxi Driver and A Clockwork Orange, all of which illustrate what it means to be an outsider living in a city full of rich people who don't understand their struggles. You can take public transport, such as a bus or subway, to get to this location. Bus number 4 goes to the Moshulu Parkway stop, a 2-minute walk from 1150 Anderson Ave. You can also use ride-share services like Uber or Lyft if you prefer private transportation. Once you arrive, you will see the building that served as the exterior for Arthur’s home in front of you, standing tall against its surroundings, with its unique graffiti artwork on display for everyone to admire.

Late night coffee scene in Joker

3396 Jerome Ave, Bronx, NY

The scene is a rare light moment for Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) in the film, Joker. After his disastrous stand-up comedy performance, he meets up with his neighbor Sophie Dumond (Zazie Beetz) at Twin Donut. The two of them share some banter over coffee and seem to make a connection, even if they don't understand each other's worlds fully. It's one of the few scenes that allow us to see Arthur as vulnerable and open rather than just an antagonist. This scene has become iconic for many reasons. It shows us a more human side to Arthur’s character, which helps us understand him better as he progresses throughout the movie. Moreover, It has become memorable due to its location, Twin Donut, which physically represents their newfound connection. The scene was filmed at Twin Donut 3396 Jerome Avenue at East 208th Street in Norwood, The Bronx borough of New York City. It was initially opened in 1959 and quickly became a beloved neighborhood staple until its closure in 2016 after nearly 60 years in business. Despite being closed now, its exterior can still be seen today and serves as a reminder of this iconic movie moment between Arthur and Sophie. Twin Donut was located on Jerome Avenue at East 208th Street in Norwood, The Bronx borough of New York City. To get there from downtown New York, you can take either train 4 or D to East 161st St.-Yankee Stadium Station or take bus BX9 from Manhattan’s 8th Ave & W 42nd St via Westchester Ave & E 207 St., both of which are about 10 mins away from the location on foot.

Arthur Fleck meets Thomas Wayne at the cinema scene in Joker

Loews Jersey Theatre, 54 Journal Square Plaza, Jersey City, NJ

The scene set in Loew's Jersey Theatre is a tense and pivotal moment between Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) and Thomas Wayne (Brett Cullen). After infiltrating the theater dressed as an usher, Arthur follows Thomas into the men’s room and finally confronts him with the possibility that he could be his son. The theater adds to the unnerving atmosphere in this scene, offering a stark contrast between the bustling chaos outside and the stillness of what’s unfolding within. From Arthur's perspective, his future hangs in limbo as he awaits Thomas' response. Loews Jersey Theatre is an iconic movie palace at 54 Journal Square Plaza in Jersey City. Constructed in 1929 and restored to its former glory in 1996, this beautiful theater is one of only four surviving movie palaces on New Jersey’s “Theater Row.” This historic venue was perfectly suited for director Todd Phillips' vision for Joker, providing a dramatic backdrop for key moments throughout the film. Loews Jersey Theatre is conveniently located at 54 Journal Square Plaza in Jersey City, less than 25 minutes from Midtown Manhattan via car or public transportation. By car, take New York State Route 9 eastbound to Route 495 eastbound and exit onto John F. Kennedy Blvd towards Journal Square/Jersey City. To reach Journal Square station via public transportation, take the yellow line (R) metro from Times Sq, 42 St to Cortlandt St. Then, take a bus from World Trade Center to reach Journal Square station. The theatre will be just two blocks away. Follow JFK Boulevard south until you reach 54 Journal Square Plaza on your right.

Stairs dance scene in Joker

1165 Shakespeare Ave, Bronx, NY

The scene of Joker dancing down the iconic stairs has become one of the most iconic and memorable moments in the 2019 film. As Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) descends the stairs, his costume changes from drab beige clothes to a brightly-colored suit and clown makeup, representing his transformation into the Joker character. The scene is set to Gary Glitter's "Rock and Roll Part 2" song, which adds to Fleck's celebratory dance energy as he reaches the bottom. This moment has been referenced in numerous memes, gaining widespread popularity and becoming an instant classic in cinematic history. The staircase where this iconic scene was filmed is located in Bronx’s Highbridge neighborhood at W 167th Street between Anderson Avenue and Shakespeare Avenue. It is easily recognizable with its two flights of stairs that connect Anderson Avenue with Shakespeare Avenue. Tourists can visit the spot every day and recreate Fleck's dance themselves. To get to this location from Manhattan, it would be best to take either the 1 or A subway lines, which will take roughly 30 minutes each way across town. Alternatively, for those traveling by car, it would only take about 15 minutes via NY-9A N, Madison Avenue, or NY-9A N and W 155th St, depending on traffic conditions.

Car crash scene in Joker

Halsey Street and Market Street junction, Newark, NJ

The final scene in Joker captures the chaos and destruction that Arthur has caused in Gotham. Arthur (Joaquin Phoenix), after killing Murray (Robert De Niro) in front of the audience, was arrested by police and looked out the window of the police car to find Gotham overrun by rioting clowns who were drawn by news of what he had done. The ambulance containing the clowns collided with the car, resulting in the death of the cops. Arthur, who was injured and unconscious, was liberated. He wakes up, stands tall, and spreads his blood across his upper lip before standing before them elevated like a god, an image that has endured as one of the most memorable in modern cinema. The scene was filmed at the Halsey Street & Market Street junction in Newark, New Jersey. The intersection offers a great look at the time period of the film and adds to its gritty aesthetic. The surrounding area is filled with historic buildings and businesses, which give off a nostalgic vibe that perfectly encapsulates the film's vibe. To access this location from Manhattan, you can take a blue metro line (C) from 81 Street to 34 St - Penn Station, take a bus from Pennsylvania Station to Newark - Pennsylvania Station. From there, you can take a bus heading west on Market Street for about 10 minutes until you reach Halsey Street & Market Street junction. If you travel by private car, expect the journey to take around 35 minutes via NJ-495 W. However, this might vary depending on traffic conditions.

Conclusion

Joker (2019) was a powerful and thought-provoking movie. Joaquin Phoenix delivered an Oscar-worthy performance as Arthur Fleck, portraying his descent into madness and violent vigilante justice in a way few other actors could have. The script was well-written and masterfully crafted to explore the themes of isolation, mental health, class warfare, and cause and effect. The idea of Joker was also interesting, exploring what may have been the events leading up to one of the most notorious villains in comic book history. The film captured the audience's attention with its gritty visuals, intense action sequences, and emotionally charged performances from Phoenix. It also impacted viewers by showing them how extreme circumstances can lead to desperate acts of violence. At the same time, it hinted at deeper social issues such as poverty, urban decay, and income inequality. Joker has undoubtedly made a significant contribution to the movie industry. Its unique approach to a classic superhero villain story has pushed boundaries regarding cinematic narratives. The success of this movie has set a high bar for other filmmakers looking to take risks with their projects, whether within the superhero genre or not. In conclusion, Joker is worth watching due to its strong performances from Phoenix, clever writing, and exploration of complex social issues in an entertaining yet meaningful way. While some may find its disturbing content too triggering or off-putting, it is still one of the best comic book movies released recently and certainly worthy of viewing at least once.