Todd Haynes Discusses Scrapped Phoenix Film

Todd Haynes recently addressed the abrupt cancellation of his film with Joaquin Phoenix, which was set to be an NC-17 gay romance, just five days before shooting was to begin. During the Marrakech Film Festival, he expressed disappointment over the situation but hinted that the film and script may be revived in a different form in the future. Phoenix, who co-wrote the screenplay and originated the project, reportedly withdrew due to 'cold feet' about the film's mature content, leaving the project without its lead and uncertain financing. Producer Christine Vachon lamented the loss of a potential film from Haynes, emphasizing the cultural impact of the missed opportunity. While Phoenix has refrained from commenting on his departure, he acknowledged the sensitivity of discussing the film without all creatives present. The film's narrative focused on a corrupt cop and his lover navigating 1930s Los Angeles and Mexico, with Danny Ramirez co-starring.