More than a year after Joaquin Phoenix unexpectedly left Todd Haynes’s untitled gay romance project, the film appears set to continue with Pedro Pascal potentially taking over the lead role. Deadline has reported that De Noche is scheduled to resume production early next year in Guadalajara, Mexico, with filming arranged to accommodate Pascal’s busy calendar. This year, Pascal starred in The Last of Us season two, Celine Song’s Materialists, and The Fantastic Four: First Steps, adding significant momentum to his involvement. Should negotiations conclude successfully, Pascal will join Danny Ramirez, who was originally cast alongside Phoenix.
The Impact of Phoenix’s Sudden Exit on Production Plans
The future of De Noche seemed uncertain after Phoenix’s abrupt departure just before filming began. Despite initial filming preparations, the Joker Oscar winner disappeared from the set for two weeks before officially leaving, with no explanation publicly offered. Phoenix’s departure posed a serious challenge, especially as he was deeply involved creatively, collaborating closely with Haynes and Jon Raymond during the story’s development. His commitment to preserving the film’s intimate scenes—potentially pushing the rating to NC-17—demonstrated his passion for the project’s authenticity. Along with his artistic influence, Phoenix was a vital financial supporter who helped secure backing from Killer Films, a company renowned for supporting LGBTQ+ cinema.
Continuing With Killer Films and the Project’s Core Vision
With Pascal now in talks to lead, it remains unclear whether De Noche’s original vision will shift, but Killer Films continues its production role with Christine Vachon and Pamela Koffler returning as producers. Pascal’s prior collaboration with Killer Films on Materialists already establishes a working relationship, adding confidence that the project’s quality will persist. The story retains Haynes’s initial premise, set in the 1930s, about two men leaving Los Angeles to pursue a passionate romance in Mexico. As pre-production advances, additional casting decisions alongside Pascal and Ramirez are expected to emerge, paving the way for the film’s revival.
Looking Ahead: The Revival’s Future in Context
Pedro Pascal’s potential involvement injects new life into a project that faced uncertainty following Joaquin Phoenix’s exit. For Todd Haynes and Killer Films, securing a dedicated lead may restore momentum to a story rooted in complex emotions and historical setting. As production prepares to restart in Guadalajara, industry watchers and fans alike await updates on how the film will evolve and what impact the casting changes may have on the final narrative. The returning producers’ commitment suggests that De Noche remains poised to deliver a meaningful exploration of LGBTQ+ themes on screen.
“He was a big proponent of taking the intimate scenes seriously, to the point that it was likely to garner an NC-17 rating.”
—Unnamed source
“If a deal is finalized, he’ll join Danny Ramirez, who was previously cast to co-star with Phoenix.”
—Deadline report
