The 'In Order to Play the Joker, Joaquin Phoenix...' meme rose to prominence following the 2019 release of 'Joker,' specifically targeting reports of the actor's extreme commitment to the role. While real news stories detailed his dramatic weight loss and isolation, the internet began inventing increasingly ridiculous scenarios of 'method acting' to explain his descent into the character. The meme format follows a rigid structure: it starts with a serious setup about his preparation and ends with a mundane or frustrating everyday task, implying that modern life is enough to turn anyone into the Joker. It serves as a satirical commentary on Hollywood's dramatization of actor transformations and the relatable struggles of daily life.