Joaquin Phoenix's creepy laugh in âJokerâ is shedding light on a real-life medical disorder.
In the film that shattered box office records over the weekend, Phoenixâs sinister character explains he has a condition that causes him to laugh uncontrollably.
It's called pseudobulbar affect, also known as PBA, and it's a neurological condition characterized by uncontrollable laughing and/or crying outbursts. The documentary âBeyond Laughter and Tears: A Journey of Hopeâ features people who have PBA.