It's one of the oldest traditions in Hollywood.

Put out a movie. Make the rounds on the talk shows. Show a clip. Collect the paycheck.

If you watched "The Late Show with David Letterman" last night, you have to wonder if actor-turned-hip-hop-wannabe Joaquin Phoenix has lost his marbles or is perpetrating some kind of Andy Kaufman-inspired joke on all of us. (He had friend Casey Affleck filming his exploits).

He was supposed to be promoting the flick "Two Lovers." What he did was show why Letterman is the best in the business when an interview is tanking.

Check out this train wreck...