‘Joker’ leads the pack with 11 Oscar nominations, bringing NJ back in the spotlight

Nominations for the Academy Awards are out with psychologist thriller “Joker” leading the pack with 11 nominations.
The film, starring Joaquin Phoenix in the title role and directed by Todd Phillips, tells the origin story of the iconic comic book villain. Among the nominations are Best Director, Best Actor and Best Picture.
“Joker” was an instant hit when it was released last year, and has grossed over $1 billion worldwide.
It is a film that will once again put New Jersey in the spotlight, as parts of the movie were filmed in Newark – part of Gov. Phil Murphy’s push to bring Hollywood productions to the Garden State. This is not the first time Newark has stood in for Gotham City. Parts of Christopher Nolan’s “Dark Knight" trilogy were also filmed in the Brick City.
The 92nd Academy Awards will be held on Sunday, Feb. 9, in Los Angeles. For the second year in a row, the show will go on without a host.