Joaquin Phoenix Biography (2)

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Joaquin Phoenix began his acting career as a child and has since demonstrated his ability to portray diverse characters. His early film credits include: Space Camp, Russkies and Parenthood.

In 1995 after taking a couple of years off, Phoenix gave a critically acclaimed performance opposite Nicole Kidman in To Die For, which was followed by a starring role in Inventing the Abbots opposite Liv Tyler. Phoenix then appeared in a wide range of different roles including opposite Nicholas Cage in Joel Schumacher's 8mm and opposite Claire Danes in Oliver Stone's U turn, in addiction to starring in Return to Paradise and Clay Pigeons.

In 2000, Phoenix starred in three distinctly different films: Gladiator, Quills and The Yards. His performance in these three films earned him rave reviews, as well as being named Best Supporting Actor by the National Board of Review and Broadcast Film Critics. His portrayal of the young power hungry Roman Emperor 'Commodus' in Gladiator resulted in his first Academy Award Nomination. He was also nominated for a Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild Award and a Golden Satellite.

Phoenix has recently starred in M. Night Shylamalan's Signs, and will next be seen in Gregor Jordan's Buffalo Soldiers and Aurora Island opposite Kim Basinger.

In addition to his big screen roles, Joaquin is a long time vegan and spokesperson for PETA (People for Ethical Treatment of Animals).

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