Joaquin Phoenix's Exit Derails Todd Haynes' Gay Romance Film

The actor left the project just days before filming, leaving the future of the 1930s-set drama uncertain.

Joaquin Phoenix exited Todd Haynes' untitled gay romance film five days before production was scheduled to start in Mexico, citing personal reasons described as 'cold feet' by sources close to the project.
The film, co-written by Phoenix, Haynes, and Jon Raymond, was set to follow a corrupt Los Angeles cop and his Native American lover fleeing to Mexico in the 1930s, with Danny Ramirez cast as the younger partner.
Phoenix's departure led to the project being shelved, as its financing and production were heavily reliant on his involvement as the lead actor.
Producer Christine Vachon called the collapse of the project a 'tragedy,' emphasizing the lost opportunity to see another film from acclaimed director Todd Haynes.
Haynes expressed hope that the script and concept might be revisited in the future, though no concrete plans have been announced.