The (Scrapped) Plot 

Joaquin Phoenix had co-written the screenplay for the detective love story alongside Todd Haynes and Jon Raymond. However, a source familiar with the production informed Variety that Phoenix experienced a change of heart. Fully constructed sets had already been completed in Guadalajara when Phoenix unexpectedly chose to leave the project at the last minute. According to Deadline, “The movie follows two men, one played by Phoenix, who have an intense relationship and leave California for Mexico. Haynes regular Christine Vachon is producing as well as Pam Koffler. No further details on what sparked Phoenix’s retreat; he has a reputation for being a deeply-committed actor. There was buzz that this film had its fair share of edgy scenes.” Joaquin Phoenix’s role is irreplaceable, leaving the production without the option to recast. As a result, the crew is now unemployed, and key investors in the film are still awaiting payment. The financial impact could potentially reach millions.

Todd Haynes directorial projects often explore LGBTQ+ themes with nuance and depth, offering a critical look at identity and society. His works, including Poison, Velvet Goldmine, and May December, delve into the complexities of sexual orientation and gender identity, often set against the backdrop of various historical and cultural contexts. Haynes gained significant recognition with Carol, a film set in 1950s New York, which portrays a forbidden romance between two women during an era of societal repression. Carol premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, where it won the Queer Palm and later received six Oscar nominations, including nods for Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara, who also won Best Actress at Cannes.