Sometimes a character is really based on research that you do. Other times it's just based on your imagination or perhaps your conversation with the director. Or sometimes all of the above. It depends on the movie and character.

- Joaquin Phoenix

I had a really wonderful upbringing. We were a tight family. It was wonderful to grow up with so many siblings. We were all just a year or two apart, and we were always so supportive of each other. I learned everything from my older brother and sister and taught it to my younger sisters.

- Joaquin Phoenix

I've always loved music, but I never really played anything. After 'Walk the Line' and learning to play guitar, and having that sense of performing, I think that certainly opened the door for me, for music.

- Joaquin Phoenix

I feel an obligation to set the record straight. Actors that say they're affected by something, that it changes their life, that they take it home with them, they're just trying to get nominated for an Oscar!

- Joaquin Phoenix

There are kids who get on a BMX bike when they're eight years old and they go, 'Whoa, this is incredible,' and grow up to do extreme sports. It's the same for me with acting.

- Joaquin Phoenix

I have this horrible sense of humor where I think discomfort is funny - partly because I experience discomfort a lot, and it's a way of laughing at it and getting a release.

- Joaquin Phoenix

I always have the fear that, if I don't commit 100 percent to my work, then it's gonna suffer.

- Joaquin Phoenix

I wouldn't feel satisfied being on set every day doing a romantic comedy - I'd be bored to death.

- Joaquin Phoenix

With public figures involved in a relationship it seems that there is a machine behind their love so oftentimes.

- Joaquin Phoenix

I've always loved music, but I never really played anything. After 'Walk the Line' and learning to play guitar, and having that sense of performing, I think that certainly opened the door for me, for music.

- Joaquin Phoenix