Joaquin Phoenix was supposed to star alongside Danny Ramirez in Todd Haynes’ intense gay romance film, but he abruptly left it five days before the director began filming. Sources close to the ‘Joker’ actor had stated that Joaquin got cold feet before filming. While there have been no concrete reports as to why he exited the untitled gay romance film, Phoenix faced questions about the issue at the Venice Film Festival.
However, the actor’s response was fairly vague. Phoenix must have seen the questions coming since his ultimate exit caused much disappointment to Haynes and loss for the producers after the film was canceled as his role could not be recast at the last minute. Producer Christine Vachon had called Phoenix’s exit a “nightmare”. Here’s how Phoenix, on the other hand, responded to the question.
“It Doesn’t Feel Like That Would Be Right”: Joaquin Phoenix Comments On His Last Minute Exit
Joaquin Phoenix attended the premiere of ‘Joker: Folie à Deux‘ at the Venice International Film Festival on September 4. At its press conference, Joaquin was questioned about his exit from Todd Haynes’ film. The actor said, “It would just be sharing my opinion and the other creatives aren’t here to share their piece.“
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Phoenix added, “It doesn’t feel like that would be right. I don’t think that would be helpful so I just don’t think I will. Thank you.” The ‘Napolean’ actor’s statement was vague and quickly ended as the ‘Joker’ film crew entered the stage. Sources had claimed that producers Christine Vachon and Pam Koffler had spent a seven-figure sum on the canceled movie.
Variety reported that the reason for Phoenix’s exit was the explicit sexual content in its plot. However, it is confusing as Joaquin had approached Haynes with the idea of the film. Moreover, he insisted on including explicit content.
Joaquin Phoenix Might Not Take On Joker’s Role Again
In the press conference, Joaquin Phoenix hinted that he might not star as Arthur Fleck again in the ‘Joker’ film series. He talked about his struggle with losing 52 pounds for the first installment. “So it felt a bit more difficult, but it is safe. I’m now 49, I probably shouldn’t do this again. This is probably it for me,” he stated.
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However, the actor told the press that he enjoyed working with Lady Gaga. The singer was cast as Joaquin’s love interest, Harley Quinn, in the film. Referring to Gaga as Stefani, Phoenix said, “Stefani said early on that we’re singing live and I said no we’re not.”
“And then we did. Not only did we sing live, but every part of the recording was live. Each take was a different version of the song and that felt really exciting,” he continued.
While it remains unclear why he exited the Haynes’ film, fans can look forward to ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ where Phoenix stars alongside Lady Gaga.
