Joaquin Phoenix Withdraws from Gay Romance Film, Leaving Production in Turmoil

Oscar-winning actor Joaquin Phoenix has abruptly exited an untitled gay romance film directed by Todd Haynes, just days before filming was set to begin in Guadalajara, Mexico. The project, which was anticipated to feature explicit sexual content and receive an NC-17 rating, has now been scrapped, leading to significant financial losses for producers. Reports indicate that Phoenix's departure was influenced by the graphic nature of the film's sex scenes, leaving crew members without work and facing potential losses exceeding seven figures. The film, which began with ideas from Phoenix himself, was developed into a narrative by Haynes and screenwriter Jon Raymond. Despite the actor's initial enthusiasm for pushing the boundaries of the project, he reportedly got "cold feet" shortly before production was to commence. The film's financing was largely secured due to Phoenix's involvement, making his exit particularly damaging for the project. Christine Vachon, a producer associated with the film, described the situation as a "nightmare" in a since-deleted Facebook post. She confirmed the reports of Phoenix's departure and emphasized that the project was originally his idea. Vachon also defended the decision to cast Phoenix, urging critics not to blame the choice on his sexual orientation, as he had been deeply involved in the film's development. As the production team scrambles to address the fallout, the future of Haynes' ambitious project remains uncertain, with little information available about its potential revival or reconfiguration.