Joaquin Phoenix Exits Todd Haynes' Gay Romance Film Days Before Filming

Phoenix's departure leaves the project in jeopardy, with significant financial and employment repercussions.

Phoenix co-developed the screenplay with Haynes and Jon Raymond.
The film was set to feature explicit sexual content, leading to an NC-17 rating.
The project, now halted, had already sold to international distributors.
Crew members and stakeholders are left unpaid, with potential losses exceeding seven figures.
Producer Christine Vachon defended casting Phoenix, emphasizing his integral role in the film's creation.