A positive update regarding Todd Haynes’ “De Noche.” Not only is it shooting in Guadalajara, Mexico, but we have these gorgeous first-look images from the set — which can be seen below.
Pedro Pascal has taken over the lead role left vacant by Joaquin Phoenix, who might (or might not) have been frightened by the explicit gay sex scenes in the film, which include an opening that involves a rimjob (hey, that’s what’s in the leaked script). Enter Pascal, who said, “bring it on!” Danny Ramirez is still attached as co-lead.
“De Noche” is being described as “a love story between two men” set in the 1930s. Haynes wrote the story with talented writer Jon Raymond, and at some point Phoenix was going to share a story credit.
Haynes has mentioned that, while brainstorming the project, Phoenix kept pushing him and going “no, let’s go further with the sex.” Haynes confirmed this would be an NC-17-rated film. It’s obvious that, with this project, and based on their own comments, Haynes and Phoenix were trying to make a very provocative film here.
Just like with Haynes’ last film, “May December,” his longtime cinematographer Edward Lachman will again not be taking part in this latest project. Instead, Michael Dymek, 35, who lensed acclaimed works such as “EO,” “The Girl With the Needle,” “A Real Pain,” and “Good Boy,” will be the DP.
Haynes is coming off the deliriously wonderful “May December,” released in 2023, and has had quite the storied career so far, having directed such films as “Safe,” “Carol,” “Far From Heaven,” “Velvet Goldmine,” “I’m Not There,” and “Dark Waters.”
“De Noche” currently has no release date, nor does it have a distributor attached, but it’s practically a cinch to premiere at Cannes 2027.
Gunn has previously called Batman his “biggest issue” in the DCU and spoken at length about how difficult it is to develop a version of the character that feels distinct enough from Reeves’ vision.