Well, I promised updates on Joaquin Phoenix, and there is certainly one to be had.  He appeared on Letterman the other night to talk about his new movie, Two Lovers–apparently the last movie he plans to make.  You can check out his interview here. 

Phoenix was so spaced-out and difficult that Letterman fell back on his usual ribbing–but seriously, the guy had to get something out of it, right?   

My sweetie is convinced that what Phoenix is doing is performance art, sort of like Andy Kaufman and his lounge-lizard alter-ego.  He says that being a rapper is the 20-teens version of the 70′s lounge singer. 

Maybe, but if Phoenix is doing something like that, he should do some more homework.  Those kind of weird antics ruined Kaufman’s career (well, that and the wrestling…). 

Mike Bruno of EW also thinks there’s a good possibility that this whole rapper thing is a hoax, but points out that at least Phoenix’s appearance on Letterman was entertaining–which is the bottom line for him.

I can’t be so sanguine about it.  All I can see when I look at Phoenix is someone who is melting down mentally, and in a very public way.  His behavior isn’t normal or healthy.  I’m not talking about taking a break from movies to pursue music, even if you suck at it (which he does).  There are many actors who pay their dues for a decade or two, and then use their wealth and standing to pursue something close to their heart.  More power to him on that score.

But the unresponsiveness, the slovenly appearance, the belligerence,  the vagueness of manner…it just seems to me that the dude’s not there (as Letterman said at the end of the interview, “Sorry you couldn’t be here tonight.”).  Doesn’t he have friends or an agent or family who can tell him, you’re tearing down everything you’ve  built up over 20 years?

I can only be counted as an admirer of Phoenix’s work, not a friend by any definition, but here’s what I would say to him:

• You’re one of the best actors of your generation.  Don’t quit acting.  You have a gift.
• Learn from the past.  Drugs and alcohol have caused your family so much sorrow; please don’t take them or yourself down that path again.
• If this is a stunt, or even performance art, knock it off.  You’re screwing over people who pay money to see your movies.  Nobody’s going to pay money to see you rap or freak out on talk shows. 
• If this is out of your control, please get help.  I know there are people who care about you.  Go to them.