Written by Shona Smith on Jan 13, 2020. Posted in On Location

Burger King use popular Bronx Joker location for viral marketing spot

Used as a filming location in Batman prequel Joker, The Bronx Steps has pulled in tourists looking to take pictures on the same staircase as Joaquin Phoenix’ character. Burger King are the latest to visit the spot, this time filming a viral marketing spot speaking to frustrated residents of the Bronx who are bothered by the new influx of tourists.

Since the release of Todd Philips’ box office smash in October, the spot has gained notoriety and quickly became a New York tourist destination. The filming location was used for an infamous dancing scene in the film, and featured in much of the movie's promotional material.

Addressed to local Bronx residents, Burger King’s mascot is seen dancing on the recognisable steps that many locals use on a daily basis. The voice over states “Dear Bronx, we know clowns can be annoying”, an obvious jab at rival MacDonald’s mascot Ronald MacDonald, before offering Bronx residents a code for a free Whopper burger.

Set in the fictional Gotham City The Joker filmed extensively in New York, while a number of scenes were also filmed in New Jersey. Both states have competitive rebates available, with New York providing a 30% tax credit and New Jersey a 30 – 35% tax credit with an additional 2% diversity bonus.

Agency: DAVID/Miami
Executive Creative Directors: Saulo Rocha,
André Toledo
Creative Directors: Fred Bosch, Álvaro Palma
Client: Burger King
Production: STEPT Studios