A Casting Shake-Up for the Ages
In news that has queer film fans buzzing, the one and only Pedro Pascal has officially been cast in De Noche, the highly anticipated new film from queer cinema icon Todd Haynes (Carol, Far From Heaven). Pascal steps into a role abruptly vacated by Joaquin Phoenix, ensuring the promising project is back on track.
Pascal will star as a "hard-boiled detective" entangled in a passionate affair with a younger man, a boarding school teacher played by the talented Danny Ramirez (Top Gun: Maverick, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier). This pairing promises electric chemistry in what's being described as a "subversive love story."
What is 'De Noche' About?
Set against the corrupt and volatile backdrop of 1930s Los Angeles on the brink of war, De Noche follows the unexpected and dangerous romance between the two men. When their love makes them targets of powerful and corrupt politicians, they are forced to flee to Mexico to survive. It's a classic noir setup, but viewed through Haynes's distinctly queer and emotionally resonant lens.
In a statement, director Todd Haynes highlighted the film's contemporary relevance:
"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."
Haynes, whose recent film May December also explored a controversial age-gap relationship, added that the story "emerges as a testament to the inexplicable powers of desire and love to survive and overcome even the most crippling of human barriers."
So, What Happened with Joaquin Phoenix?
Here's where the story gets juicy. Phoenix wasn't just attached to star; he is also credited with the film's original story concept. Yet, he dropped out of the project just five days before filming was scheduled to begin in August 2024, causing a complete production shutdown.
While no official reason was given, multiple reports suggested the Joker actor got "cold feet" over the explicit queer sex scenes required for the role. The irony of an actor bailing on intimate scenes for a story he himself helped create has not been lost on industry watchers.
Phoenix's loss, however, is our gain. The casting of Pedro Pascal, a vocal and beloved ally to the LGBTQ+ community, feels like a perfect fit. His involvement, alongside the visionary direction of Todd Haynes, has reignited excitement and anticipation for what is sure to be a powerful and important piece of queer cinema.
