Pedro Pascal will lead the cast of Todd Haynes’ new film, De Noche. The drama tells the story of a Los Angeles police officer (Pascal) who falls in love with a younger schoolteacher (Danny Ramirez) in the 1930s. When they become targets of the city’s corrupt officials, the couple is forced to escape to Mexico.
According to director Todd Haynes (via Variety), the film starring Pedro Pascal and Danny Ramirez is set against a backdrop of issues that feel very current – including corruption at home, racial injustice, and worldwide fear. However, the story ultimately celebrates the enduring and surprising strength of love and desire to triumph over even the most difficult obstacles.
Joaquin Phoenix was originally cast as Pascal and initially brought the project to Killer Films, where he worked with director Haynes and Jon Raymond to develop it. However, he unexpectedly dropped out right before filming was scheduled to start in 2024, creating a difficult situation for everyone involved. Producer Christine Vachon described it as a “nightmare,” as Phoenix’s star power had been crucial in getting the film made in the first place, and it was unclear how the project would continue without him.
Pascal would be a fantastic replacement. Last August, there was talk of him potentially taking over for Phoenix, but it was uncertain if his busy schedule would allow it. This year alone, he’s starring in two major blockbusters: The Mandalorian and Grogu in May and Avengers: Doomsday in December. However, he consistently finds time for smaller, independent films too. In 2025, he appeared in both smaller projects like Materialists and Eddington (interestingly, alongside Phoenix) and large-scale films like The Fantastic Four: First Steps. He somehow manages to balance everything.
This Isn’t the First Time Joaquin Phoenix Has Gotten Cold Feet at the Last Minute
A24
Joaquin Phoenix is known for sometimes backing out of projects at the last minute. James McAvoy revealed that Phoenix was initially cast as the lead in M. Night Shyamalan’s Split, but dropped out just two weeks before filming began, leading to McAvoy getting the part. Phoenix also almost quit Ridley Scott’s Napoleon, though he ended up staying with the film, much to the slight dismay of many viewers.
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There’s no confirmed release date yet for the film De Noche, but production is progressing. MK2 Films, the French company behind the Best Picture-nominated Sentimental Value, is now financing the project and will handle international distribution. Director Todd Haynes is known for making critically acclaimed dramas, often exploring LGBTQ+ stories, such as Velvet Underground, Far From Heaven, and Carol. With actor Benicio del Toro now involved, and expected to remain with the project, De Noche is shaping up to be a promising film.
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2026-02-04 23:50