(CNN) Let's put a smile on that face: A "Batman" prequel scored big Saturday at the 2019 Venice International Film Festival.

Todd Phillips' "Joker" took home the festival's big prize, the Golden Lion for Best Film.

The movie, which stars Joaquin Phoenix and is slated to hit theaters on October 4, explores the origins of the Joker, Batman's archenemy.

The story follows the life of Arthur Fleck, a failed comedian who faces violence while roaming Gotham City dressed as a clown. Fleck falls into madness as he slowly transforms into the criminal mastermind known as Joker.

Phoenix gives Gotham's grinning villain a new face. The character was previously played by Jared Leto in "Suicide Squad" and Heath Ledger in "the Dark Knight."

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