Joaquin Phoenix and Todd Phillips Addressbr Criticism That 'Joker' Could Inspire Violence.br With the release of ‘Joker’ scheduled forbr Oct. 4, critics are already debating the risksbr posed by the films inherent violent nature. .br Many are arguing that Phoenix’sbr deranged character, Arthur, could bebr interpreted as an inspirational character.br When asked to address the concerns, Phoenixbr said he believes it isn’t the “responsibility ofbr a filmmaker” to guide the viewer’s interpretation. .br I don't think it's the responsibility of a filmmakerbr to teach the audience morality or the differencebr between right or wrong … I think if you havebr somebody that has that level of emotionalbr disturbance, they can find fuel anywhere. Ibr just don't think that you can function that way, Joaquin Phoenix, to IGN.br Director Todd Phillips also echoed Phoenix’sbr lack of concern, saying he believes people willbr be able to “handle the message” of the movie. .br The movie makes statements about a lack of love,br childhood trauma, lack of compassion in thebr world. I think people can handle that message …br It's so, to me, bizarre when people say, ‘Oh,br well I could handle it. But imagine if you can't.