Joaquin Phoenix: Beyond 'Joker', the voice for the voiceless at the Oscars

The spotlight has often shone on the illustrious Oscar winners, their gleaming trophies, and those heartfelt speeches that leave an indelible mark on audiences worldwide. And the 2020 Oscars were no different, particularly with the fervor surrounding Joaquin Phoenix's portrayal of the "Joker."

Using fame as a platform for change

Accepting the best actor award, Phoenix embarked on a stirring monologue, transcending the traditional boundaries of an acceptance speech. "This form of expression has given me the most extraordinary... opportunity to use our voice for the voiceless," he declared, captivating the audience.

The actor further elucidated on how the film industry, amidst its glamour, also mirrors societal disconnections, from nature to interpersonal relationships. Addressing various injustices, he passionately remarked, "Whether we’re talking about gender inequality or racism or...animal rights, we’re talking about the fight against the belief... one species has the right to dominate, control, and use and exploit another with impunity.”

Phoenix's commitment to veganism was palpable when he emotionally narrated the story of a dairy cow, stating, "We feel entitled to artificially inseminate a cow and when she gives birth, we steal her baby." The very idea of personal change, he mentioned, isn't about sacrificing but about realizing our potential for love, compassion, and ingenuity.

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A journey of redemption and humanity

In a poignant moment of self-reflection, Phoenix acknowledged his past. "I’ve been a scoundrel in my life. I’ve been selfish, I’ve been cruel at times, hard to work with," he confessed. Yet, in the room filled with contemporaries, he found redemption, and gratitude for those who offered him a second chance. For Phoenix, it was about supporting, guiding, and growing together.

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Concluding his speech, Phoenix invoked memories of his late brother, River Phoenix, quoting, "Run to the rescue with love and peace will follow."

Phoenix's win for "Joker" wasn't just an accolade for his stellar acting; it symbolized the voice he lent to various causes, making that Oscar night truly unforgettable.

It's noteworthy that Phoenix had been a favorite throughout the awards season, sweeping victories from the Screen Actors Guild to the BAFTAs and Golden Globes. And while he might have been the focal point of that Oscar evening, his message of love, compassion, and change resonates even more powerfully today.

(Several parts of the text in this article, including the title, were generated with the help of an AI tool.)