Pedro Pascal is set to star in Todd Haynes’ upcoming drama De Noche, which chronicles the story of a Los Angeles police officer who embarks on a passionate and unexpected romance with a younger boarding school teacher in the 1930s. The intense relationship unfolds amid a backdrop of political corruption, forcing the couple to flee to Mexico to escape the city’s powerful corrupt forces.
New Casting Fills Unexpected Void in Todd Haynes’ Project
The lead role in De Noche, originally intended for Joaquin Phoenix, will now be played by Pedro Pascal. Phoenix had initially brought the project to Killer Films and collaborated with Haynes and Jon Raymond to develop the story. However, just before production was due to start in 2024, Phoenix withdrew, creating significant challenges for the cast and crew. Producer Christine Vachon described the development as “a nightmare,” noting that Phoenix’s involvement had been instrumental in launching the project, and it was uncertain whether it could proceed without him.
Pascal’s attachment to the role brings renewed momentum. Though there was speculation about his participation last August, scheduling concerns loomed due to his busy calendar. Pascal remains notably versatile, balancing major franchise roles, including his appearances as Grogu in The Mandalorian in May and a part in Avengers: Doomsday set for December. He also takes on smaller films like Materialists and Eddington, working alongside Phoenix once again, and still manages to star in large productions such as The Fantastic Four: First Steps. His ability to handle both intimate dramas and blockbuster hits makes him an ideal fit for Haynes’ latest film.
Joaquin Phoenix’s History of Last-Minute Project Withdrawals
Joaquin Phoenix has developed a pattern of abandoning projects shortly before filming begins. Actor James McAvoy revealed that Phoenix was originally slated for the lead role in M. Night Shyamalan’s Split but ultimately
“ditched it two weeks before the shooting,”
leading to McAvoy’s casting in the role. Phoenix also considered leaving Ridley Scott’s historical drama Napoleon, though he stayed involved through the production, despite mixed reactions from audiences.
Progress and Support for De Noche’s Production
While De Noche does not yet have an announced release date, production is moving forward. French independent company MK2 Films has taken on financing and international sales responsibilities. This studio is known for backing high-caliber projects, including the current Best Picture contender Sentimental Value. Todd Haynes is renowned for his sophisticated dramas, many exploring queer themes, such as Velvet Underground, Far From Heaven, and Carol. With Pedro Pascal now confirmed in a starring role, the film is generating anticipation among cinephiles and industry observers alike.
Todd Haynes highlighted the story’s significance by remarking,
“This story, with Pedro Pascal and Danny Ramirez in the two leads, arises out of an era — all too relevant to our own — of domestic corruption, racial exploitation and global terror,”
continuing,
“But it emerges as a testament to the inexplicable powers of desire and love to survive and overcome even the most crippling of human barriers.”
As the film moves closer to production, De Noche promises to be a compelling exploration of forbidden love and resilience during a tumultuous period in Los Angeles, with the talents of Todd Haynes and Pedro Pascal shaping it into a project to follow closely.
