September 7, 2010 17:32

Joaquin Phoenix snubs the premiere of new film 'I'm Still Here'

Actor fails to show in the red carpet despite being at the Venice Film Festival

Joaquin Phoenix has sparked controversy at the Venice Film Festival by not showing up to the premiere of his latest movie, despite being in the Italian city. I'm Still Here is the directorial debut from Casey Affleck, who walked the red carpet alone after his leading actor failed to appear.

Earlier in the day at the press conference for the film, which Affleck also attended alone, he told journalists it was up to Phoenix how he chose to support the movie.

Filmed over the course of a year, I'm Still Here documents Joaquin Phoenix's life from the moment he announced his retirement from acting in 2008 to embark on a career as a hip-hop musician.

Shot as a fly on the wall documentary, questions have been thrown up as to the authenticity of the film, with many suggesting it was a spoof.

The film features appearances from actor Ben Affleck, rapper Kanye West plus Phoenix's much reported appearance on The David Letterman Show.