Phoenix Exits Haynes' Film, Project Canceled

Joaquin Phoenix has abruptly exited Todd Haynes' upcoming gay romance film just five days before filming was set to start in Mexico, leading to the project's cancellation. Phoenix, who had co-developed the screenplay and was integral to the film's creation, reportedly got 'cold feet' over the explicit sexual content. Set construction had already begun in Guadalajara, and the production's abrupt halt has left the crew out of work and stakeholders facing potentially seven-figure losses. The film, which was to star Danny Ramirez alongside Phoenix, was intended to be an NC-17 rated narrative about two men fleeing to Mexico in the 1930s. The role cannot be recast, and the project's collapse has resulted in significant financial repercussions.