If there were a word to easily sum up Joaquin Phoenix's career, it'd be "unpredictable". We're talking about the same guy who took a year off and pretended to start a rap career, even going so far as to make a movie about it. Since he's returned he hasn't really stopped trying new things, and is currently gaining some Oscar heat for Spike Jonze's unconventional sci-fi/romance Her. But one thing Phoenix hasn't done is star in a superhero movie, although that could be about to change.
Phoenix is reportedly being sought for Zack Snyder's Man of Steel sequel, referred to as Batman vs. Superman. Variety says Warner Bros. wants him for the main villain role, which is expected to be Lex Luthor, although talks are extremely early and he may pass on it completely. It's not as if Phoenix has a history of taking blockbuster roles, and this would be one of the biggest in a crowded 2015 field. But it makes sense for the studio to seek out someone like Phoenix to play the top heel, as we've heard names like Jason Momoa and Callan Mulvey for the other bad guy part. Neither of those guys is a big enough name to sell tickets, but Phoenix has clout on the indie and mainstream circuit.
Look back on the highly idiosyncratic performances Phoenix has given in Her and The Master, and start thinking about what unique flourishes he could bring to Lex Luthor. The Man of Steel sequel opens July 17th 2015.
