Jared Leto's The Joker Even Freaked Out Suicide Squad Director David Ayer

Actor Jared Leto really embraced his role as the Joker during the filming of Suicide Squad, which will be released later this year. By sending macabre gifts to his movie co-stars and staying in character 24/7, Leto turned in a performance that seemed to unnerve everyone, even Suicide Squad director David Ayer.

In an interview with USA Today, Ayer discussed how Leto freaked out everyone on set, including himself. "Big time," Ayer told the newspaper. "The hairs stand up on the back of your neck."

Ayer also praised Leto's unique approach to the character. "I love helping actors find what methodology works best for them. It's like tailoring a suit — it's not one size fits all. But it really made an event when he would show up on set." Although Ayer noted that people kept their distance from Leto arrived when he was on set, he said his freaky antics translated well on film. "There was almost a pageantry to him, which did translate into the character and the power on screen he has. "

Despite Leto's unconventional methods getting into character, Ayer stressed Leto's approach came from a respect for the Joker. "He is the best known villain in fiction so there's an incredible responsibility there to also be faithful to what he is but at the same time push him into this next world, next time, next phase."

Suicide Squad will be released on August 5, 2016. Be sure to tune into The Dawn of the Justice League special on The CW tonight for a sneak peek of the film.