Joaquin Phoenix exits film days before production, causes seven-figure losses
Joaquin Phoenix's abrupt exit halts film production, leads to major financial impact
Joaquin Phoenix has finally spoken out after abruptly leaving a film just five days before production was set to begin. A news agency first reported that Phoenix had exited the project, despite being a driving force behind its creation.
The film was set to feature Phoenix alongside Danny Ramirez, known for his role in Top Gun: Maverick. Todd Haynes, who directed the acclaimed May December, was slated to helm the film.
In a Variety interview, Ramirez described the film as a ‘love story between two men set in the ’30s with explicit sexual content’. Initial speculation suggested that Phoenix left due to the film’s explicit nature, but Variety disputed this.
In Venice promoting his "Joker" sequel, Joaquin Phoenix says it wouldn't be "helpful" for him to explain why he recently dropped out of a Todd Haynes film just before it was set to begin shooting. pic.twitter.com/wMrzuxxYo9
— AP Entertainment (@APEntertainment) September 4, 2024
Industry sources told Variety that Phoenix himself pitched the NC-17 concept to Haynes. Haynes explained to Variety that Phoenix initially presented fragmented ideas, which he then developed into a script. He added, “Joaquin was pushing it further into more dangerous territory, sexually.”
At the Venice Film Festival press conference for Joker 2, Phoenix was asked about his departure from the film. Kyle Buchanan of the New York Times reported Phoenix’s response: “It would just be sharing my opinion and the other creatives aren’t here to share their piece. It doesn’t feel like that would be right. I don’t think that would be helpful so I just don’t think I will. Thank you.”
Phoenix’s last-minute exit is expected to result in losses exceeding seven figures. IndieWire noted that multiple key stakeholders will still require compensation. The film cannot proceed with Ramirez and a different actor.
Todd Haynes’ representative declined to comment when approached by a news agency.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Ladbible reports that Joaquin Phoenix broke his silence on dropping out of a gay romance film just before filming, citing personal reasons.(read more)
- Bored Panda reports Joaquin Phoenix’s sudden exit from a gay romance film, citing his discomfort with explicit scenes, despite co-writing the script with director Todd Haynes.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why did Joaquin Phoenix drop out of the film?
The specific reason remains unclear as he chose not to share his opinion.
Who was set to star alongside Joaquin Phoenix in the film?
Top Gun: Maverick breakout star Danny Ramirez.
What genre was the movie supposed to be?
It was a love story between two men set in the ’30s with explicit sexual content.
Who was the director of the film?
The film was set to be directed by Todd Haynes.
Will the film continue without Joaquin Phoenix?
No, the film will not continue with Ramirez and another actor.
