Director Todd Phillipswhose latest installment is Joker: Folie à Deux, argues that cinema chains should forgo commercials before film screenings in order to improve moviegoers’ cinematic experience. (Also read | Joker Director Todd Phillips Signals Uncertainty About Future Films in the Franchise Amid Sequel Release)

Todd was speaking to Empire magazine as part of a survey of filmmakers about what the future of showbiz would look like. “Stop showing commercials before movies. We paid for our tickets. We’re excited to be there. Commercials tend to suck the air out of the theater,” the Oscar winner said.

In the poll, he was among 14 filmmakers, including George Miller (Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga), Sean Baker, director of this year’s Palme d’Or winner Anora, Sofia Coppola (Priscilla) and Daniel Scheinert (Everything Everywhere At Once).

Featured Joaquin Phoenix And Lady GagaJoker: Folie à Deux was both a commercial and critical failure. Directed by Todd, the musical psychological thriller released in October this year.