Jack Nicholson and Heath Ledger have both created a unique version of the Joker that has definitely influenced our perception of the character. With a revival of the character being inevitable, it is imperative that an actor with a certain caliber is selected to take on the role. Here are a few actors that I think could provide an interesting take on the character.

Adrien Brody

There were a few actors speculated to play the role of the Joker when the role was being cast for “The Dark Knight.” Adrien Brody was among those speculated and at that time he was my choice to play the part. He has been off the radar for some time because of a few moments of eccentric behavior but given the role of the Joker, I think that behavior is perfectly fitting. Despite what some may think of him, he is an Academy Award winning actor with vast range. He also doesn’t have the look of the average actor and his prominent features would just complement his abilities and the role he would play.

Michael Sheen

Michael Sheen is an actor who has taken on a variety of roles throughout his career. While he may not have received critical acclaim for every role, the versatility of these roles may be what is necessary to take on the role of the Joker. The Joker has a certain psychotic prestige and given Sheen’s darker roles such as “Underworld” combined with more prestigious roles like “Frost/Nixon,” I think he could definitely channel Batman’s arch-nemesis.

Willem Dafoe

Willem Dafoe is a genius of an actor and he has the face for the Joker as you can see above. From his nominations for “Shadow of the Vampire” and “Platoon” he’s already proven himself as a more than adequate candidate. In addition to his critical acclaim, he’s a seasoned actor that could definitely work well with a seasoned Batman if that is what the studios continue to pursue.

An Unknown

Sometimes it is best not to have anyone that audiences can relate to. There are many accomplished actors out there waiting for a big break and what better way to let them prove themselves than playing a character as iconic as the Joker? Many have their favorites when it comes to actors but a newcomer can easily become a new fan favorite.

 
 

Who should NOT be the Joker

There are a few fan favorites to play the Joker that have been circulating the net. Among these favorites are some great actors but despite their greatness, I feel that they just do not fit into the roles.

Crispin Glover

He is selective in his roles and when he does take a role it is usually a quiet and reserved character. While I agree that Crispin Glover is a unique actor, I think that he is more suited for a role like the Riddler. His quietly reserved nature just seems unfitting for the Joker that we would like to see on the big screen.

Matthew McConaughey

I am a huge fan of Matthew McConaughey and I love that he is on the rise, but I don’t think he should be considered for the role of the Joker. Despite my confidence in his acting abilities, there is not one role he played that comes to mind where his recognizable southern accent hasn’t been present. Along with many of his notable quips (“Alright Alright”), the role of the Joker would have so many hurdles to overcome that it wouldn’t be worth the time.

Mark Hamill

Mark Hamill has been the voice of the Joker for a variety of things starting with “Batman: The Animated Series.” His voice is charismatic and entertaining but voice acting is much different than on screen acting. His portrayal is amazing but even if he could adequately play the character on screen, I think the character would be too animated for the role. I love Mark Hamill but I believe he is limited to voice only when it comes to the Joker.