This Wikipedia biography chronicles the life and prolific career of Joaquin Phoenix, a highly acclaimed American actor known for portraying complex and unconventional characters. The text outlines his unusual upbringing in a religious cult, his early start as a child actor alongside his brother River Phoenix, and his rise to stardom through roles in films like Gladiator, Walk the Line, and Joker. Beyond his acting achievements, which include an Academy Award and multiple Golden Globes, the sources highlight his intense commitment to method acting and his reputation for being media-shy. A significant portion of the material focuses on his dedicated animal rights activism and his lifelong commitment to a vegan lifestyle. Additionally, the entry provides details regarding his personal relationships, specifically his partnership with actress Rooney Mara, and his diverse ventures into music video direction and production.