Joaquin Phoenix Suddenly Abandons Gay Romance Film
Actors changing their minds about the movies they’ve agreed to be part of isn’t that big a deal. But when a celebrity makes the sudden decision five days before production begins, it causes waves of panic in Tinseltown.
That’s exactly what Joaquin Phoenix did when he reportedly abandoned a still-unnamed motion picture. Making things worse (and more expensive), filming was supposed to take place on location in Guadalajara, Mexico.
The move was even more surprising given the fact that the 49-year-old actor was the one who pitched the project to Director Todd Haynes and Killer Films’ producers.
“There’s been a huge amount of outrage,” shared a studio executive, referring to the producers’ reactions.
The film’s investors and crew were left high and dry. According to speculation, it’s likely that the Joker star will have legal action taken against him.
The untitled feature film is a gay romance set in the 1930s. Danny Ramirez from Captain America: Brave New World is believed to be one of the leads.
Some sources claim that Phoenix was entertaining second thoughts in the days leading up to production. “According to multiple sources, Phoenix got cold feet in the leadup to the production, though the reasons remain murky.” read one report.
Joaquin Phoenix Has a History of Abandoning Productions
Sadly for the prolific actor, it isn’t the first time he’s done this. Sources of The Hollywood Reporter (THR) revealed that Phoenix almost didn’t become part of the Ridley Scott film Napoleon. Apparently, Walk the Line’s lead threatened to walk out if his chosen writer wasn’t allowed to rewrite the script.
Since the film was released last year, it’s safe to assume he succeeded in getting those rewrites done.
But will there be any real consequences to his career?
The idea of blackballing the performer has certainly been mentioned, especially in light of recent developments. However, with his upcoming film and previous awards, some new outlets don’t believe that there’ll be any serious ramifications.
“According to sources, some producers have idly talked about blackballing Phoenix over the Haynes departure, but most acknowledge that’s not realistic, particularly given that Joker 2… is expected to be a hit,” speculated THR.
An agent weighed in and said that Phoenix probably wouldn’t mind settling any resulting charges with a seven-figure payment.
“As long as they threaten, he’ll settle. It’s nothing to him,” the agent predicted.
