Joaquin Phoenix addressed his controversial departure from Todd Haynes' untitled gay romance film during a press conference at the Venice Film Festival, but refrained from providing specific reasons for his exit. He stated that discussing his perspective would be one-sided as the other creatives involved were not present to share their views. The film was set to begin shooting in Guadalajara, Mexico, just five days after Phoenix withdrew, leaving the production and crew in disarray. Speculation suggests he may have had 'cold feet' due to the film's explicit NC-17 content. Despite efforts from producers to salvage the project, it has now been shelved indefinitely, and the local crew has been left without work or compensation. Phoenix is currently promoting his role in Joker: Folie à Deux, which premieres in October.