Joaquin Phoenix donates signed ‘Joker’ poster to Cinema for Gaza auction

Fundraiser surpassed $200,000 with late celebrity donations before closing on April 12

The Cinema for Gaza auction reached over $200,000 in funds raised, according to The Hollywood Reporter. This remarkable achievement has been bolstered by a flurry of last-minute contributions from high-profile celebrities within the entertainment industry.

The auction, organised by UK-based filmmakers and film journalists Hanna Flint, Julia Jackman, Leila Latif, Sophie Monks Kaufman and Helen Simmons, saw a series of new items added before its closing. Notable among these is a signed Joker poster by actor Joaquin Phoenix, who has been an active supporter of the cause.

Phoenix, also recognised for his participation in signing a letter supporting Jonathan Glazer’s Oscar speech, donated another poster from the film You Were Never Really Here, which he autographed alongside director Lynne Ramsay.

Additional contributions include six autographed books by famed director Guillermo del Toro, a signed script of The Crown from actor Emma Corrin and a unique Cinema for Gaza painting by American History X director Tony Kaye. Moreover, Saturday Night Live writer Julio Torres has offered a personal chat and a custom tattoo design, further diversifying the collection of auction items.

Since its launch on March 28, the auction has amassed a wide array of contributions from over 200 lots, with items from Spike Lee, Paul Mescal, Olivia Colman, Tessa Thompson, Josh O’Conner, Tilda Swinton, and many others. Organisers expressed their gratitude, stating, “We are moved and inspired by the generosity of both donors and bidders. Our small team of volunteers is proud to facilitate this effort, contributing vital aid via Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) – the only NGO currently operating in the north of Gaza.”

Closed on April 12, the auction supports MAP in its efforts to provide medical aid in Gaza amidst ongoing conflicts. The local health authority in Gaza reports over 32,000 Palestinian casualties after Israel launched attacks in Palestine on October 7.

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