Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker has finally hit theaters and fans wasted no time rushing to social media to share their reactions and first impressions of the actor’s portrayal of the popular character. It was believed that there would be some mixed reactions, but an overwhelming majority of early moviegoers have been impressed with Phoenix’s performance.

In fact, some have already deemed Phoenix’s performance “Oscar-worthy.”

Along with Phoenix’s acting clinic, Todd Phillips’ film has received high praise all around which could be a surprise for Phillips, who previously said that he expected the film to receive some backlash.

“We didn’t follow anything from the comic-books, which people are gonna be mad about,” Phillips during a previous interview with Empire magazine. “We just wrote our own version of where a guy like Joker might come from. That’s what was interesting to me. We’re not even doing Joker, but the story of becoming Joker. It’s about this man.”

So what exactly are fans saying of Phoenix’s portrayal of the Joker?

Here are some of the best spoiler-free first impressions of his performance on the silver screen.

First-Impressions of Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker

“#JokerMovie is everything you’ve heard it is. Phoenix is incredible. There’s one thing that almost happens that I desperately wanted, but in the end I love where they took it. We never need another #Joker origin story. Ever.” — @laptop_Insane

“So uh, not sure it’s ok to say this … but #Joker is incredible. Takes Batman to the depths of hell dark. Phoenix deserves any Oscar buzz he may get. See it before it’s pulled from theatres. The script was perfect and carried out what a maniacal, deranged lunatic is supposed to be. So many easter eggs too. Definitely understand why some didn’t want that shown across America.” — @BCrawford247

Shocked, disturbed, perhaps a sense of guilt after watching the @jokermovie. Joaquin Phoenix’s performance-WOW. Whether you’re a comic book fan or not, you gain appreciation and respect to all of the actors who’ve had to completely immerse themselves into this role👏 #Joker 🃏 pic.twitter.com/kOyuOCgAJ4 — Beatriz Reyna (@BeatrizNews2) October 4, 2019

“I’m not exaggerating. #Joker has a chance to be the movie of the year. Actually a masterpiece. The best movie DC has put out in years. A must watch for Batman fans. Heck, even if you aren’t into superhero stuff it’s a great movie im general. Watch it.” — @zerowondering

“Someone please give Joaquin Phoenix all the Oscars because I can’t tell if I’m disturbed, entertained, or just in awe by what I just witnessed. Also, I’ve never wanted to be on a talk show less than right now.” — @OmarJimenez

“Joaquin Phoenix not only delivered the greatest performance of his career, but one of the greatest performances of the last decade. Heath Ledger would have been so proud if he was able to witness this. I swear, if the Academy leaves him out…” — @JesabelRaay

#JOKER seriously dark and outright disturbing, it evoked both horror and sympathy, while being utterly brilliant.

Seriously caught me off guard several times.

Phoenix's performance is Oscar worthy.#Batman @jokermovie pic.twitter.com/c7dk2aU9h4 — Randy Malloy (@RADIORANDY) October 4, 2019

“Ladies and Gentlemen… The best movie of 2019. An absolute masterpiece. Thank God for Todd Philips and Joaquin Phoenix.” — @NikkoCaruso

“Joker will probably be the most psychologically disturbing film I’ve seen. Joaquin Phoenix is hypnotic and phenomenal. Todd Phillips delivers a challenging character study and cautionary tale for today. This is proof that comic-book films can be serious and intellectual art.” — @StevenVo2168

“Just watched #JokerMovie & let me tell y’all what a masterpiece. Mental illness and abuse acknowledgement, reference to Bruce Wayne, Arkham Asylum, the laugh. It was perfect what a surreal experience!! This year’s Oscar belongs to Joaquin Phoenix. Period.” — @DannyAmazin

#Joker🃏(4/5) A radical, audacious, depressingly dark, psychodrama masterpiece of ultraviolent nihilism.#JoaquinPhoenix's beautiful nightmare of a performance as the iconic Clown Prince is the embodiment of pure anarchy & graceful idiosyncrasy. Profoundly astounding cinema. pic.twitter.com/cLH0nvJUWx — Kolly SODA 🍾 (@Kollysodaa) October 4, 2019