Pedro Pascal in Talks to Revive Todd Haynes' NC-17 Gay Romance "De Noche"
Hollywood is abuzz with the latest casting news as beloved actor Pedro Pascal is reportedly in talks to take the lead role in Todd Haynes' highly anticipated, and once-stalled, gay romance film, "De Noche." This development brings a dramatic revival to a project that faced an uncertain future after Joaquin Phoenix's abrupt departure last year.
The Journey of "De Noche": From Conception to Revival
The film, tentatively titled "De Noche," is set to be a passionate and explicit period drama. It tells the story of two men in love during the 1930s who embark on a journey from Los Angeles to Mexico. Director Todd Haynes, known for his nuanced and often boundary-pushing narratives, initially developed the project with Joaquin Phoenix, who was also slated to star. Phoenix himself was reportedly keen on exploring the film's intimate themes, pushing for even more "dangerous territory, sexually," suggesting an NC-17 rating was likely.
However, the production hit a major snag in August 2024 when Phoenix unexpectedly withdrew just five days before filming was set to commence in Guadalajara, Mexico. Reports indicated that Phoenix experienced "cold feet" regarding the intensity of the script's gay sex scenes, leading to the project's temporary collapse. His sudden exit not only left the creative team "devastated" but also created significant financial and distribution hurdles, as many agreements were tied to his involvement. Producer Christine Vachon of Killer Films described the situation as a "nightmare."
Pedro Pascal: A New Hope for the Controversial Project
Now, more than a year later, the acclaimed Pedro Pascal, fresh off a busy year with roles in films like "Materialists" and "The Fantastic Four: First Steps," and the second season of HBO's "The Last of Us," is reportedly in discussions to step into the pivotal role. If a deal is finalized, Pascal would star alongside Danny Ramirez, who was previously cast as Phoenix's on-screen lover.
The potential involvement of Pedro Pascal injects new life into "De Noche," offering a path forward for the film's production. Killer Films, a banner recognized for its support of LGBTQ+ projects, remains onboard, with plans to restart filming in early 2026 in Guadalajara, Mexico. While Pascal's incredibly packed schedule remains a consideration, the prospect of his talent bringing this compelling 1930s gay romance to the screen has generated considerable excitement among cinephiles and industry insiders alike.
Why "De Noche" Matters
The revival of "De Noche" underscores the enduring power of storytelling, particularly narratives that challenge conventional boundaries. With Todd Haynes at the helm and the potential addition of Pedro Pascal, this explicit gay romance film has the opportunity to be a significant cultural and cinematic event. It promises to delve into themes of love, displacement, and self-discovery against a rich historical backdrop, offering a provocative and insightful look into human relationships. Film enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting further updates on this highly anticipated project.
Sources
- Todd Haynes' Canceled Gay Romance Film Finds the Perfect Joaquin Phoenix Replacement
- Pedro Pascal Just Might Save Todd Haynes's Explicit Gay Romance
- Pedro Pascal in talks to replace Joaquin Phoenix in Todd Haynes' gay film
- Todd Haynes' Gay Romance That Collapsed After Joaquin Phoenix Exit Could Be Revived with Pedro Pascal