Todd Haynes’ much-anticipated film De Noche is moving forward after a major setback in 2025 when Joaquin Phoenix exited the project just before filming. Now, Pedro Pascal has officially taken over the role, stepping into the lead in this forbidden gay romance set against the backdrop of 1930s Los Angeles.
Project Update: Pedro Pascal Joins De Noche
Production on De Noche, which was paused last summer after Joaquin Phoenix withdrew, has resumed in early 2026. Variety confirms that Pedro Pascal will portray a hard-boiled detective entangled in a secret and dangerous romance. Danny Ramirez stars alongside Pascal as the younger man involved in this complex relationship, with shooting scheduled to begin in March 2026. The film marks the first collaboration between Pascal and director Todd Haynes, known for acclaimed works like Carol and Far From Heaven.
Plot Overview: A Romance Amidst Corruption and Flight
De Noche unfolds as a dramatic love story set in 1930s Los Angeles, echoing classic noir influences such as Chinatown. The narrative follows a police officer, played by Pedro Pascal, who becomes involved with a boarding school teacher, portrayed by Danny Ramirez. Facing the city‘s corrupt political forces, the couple is forced to escape to Mexico, where their relationship deepens amid growing dangers. Todd Haynes has described the film’s themes as encompassing not only forbidden love but also issues like domestic corruption, racial exploitation, and global terror.
“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,”
Todd Haynes, Director
Background: Joaquin Phoenix’s Departure and Film Delay
Joaquin Phoenix, renowned for his role in Joker, left De Noche days before production was set to begin in Mexico during the summer of 2025, leaving the film’s future uncertain. At that time, Haynes commented on the difficult circumstances surrounding Phoenix’s exit but maintained hope for the project’s revival.
“What happened this summer was tough. But the film itself and the script [which Haynes co-wrote with Jon Raymond] itself may resurrect in a different form someday,”
Todd Haynes, Director
That revival has now arrived with Pascal’s casting, allowing the movie to regain momentum after a frustrating delay.
Frequently Asked Questions About De Noche
What is De Noche about?
De Noche is a Todd Haynes film featuring Pedro Pascal and Danny Ramirez. It tells the story of two men caught in the crosshairs of Los Angeles’ corrupt political environment, who must flee to Mexico where their intense clandestine relationship unfolds.
Is De Noche a horror movie?
No, De Noche is a romantic drama. However, there is another film titled De Noche con el Diablo, a found-footage horror movie involving a talk show host and mysterious guests that spirals into chaos.
When is De Noche releasing?
While De Noche with Pedro Pascal is in production and expected to be released soon, an exact date has not been announced. De Noche con el Diablo was released in 2024 but is unrelated to this project.
Implications and Expectations for De Noche
The casting change in De Noche highlights the complexities and uncertainties of filmmaking, especially for sensitive and layered stories addressing forbidden love amid harsh societal realities. Pedro Pascal’s involvement brings new energy to the project, which is expected to explore profound societal themes through its noir-inspired narrative. With filming imminent, audiences can anticipate a compelling drama that challenges barriers of desire and political corruption alike.
