On October the 31st 1993, the actor River Phoenix 
died. His drug induced death was sudden and devastating. Phoenix, at the time was shooting a film by the name of DARK BLOOD, which was being directed by George Sluizer. His unexpected and tragic death put an end to the production and until now nothing more has really ever come of it.
After the death of Phoenix, Sluzier kept a hold of the footage in fear that it would be destroyed. Eighteen years down the line and approaching the anniversary of Phoenix’s death, Sluizer has announced that with some voice-work and some tactical cuts, DARK BLOOD might well get a belated release.
The film will need some extra voice over work in order to be completed and so Joaquin Phoenix; River’s brother, will be filling that role. ‘The voices of both brothers are very much alike,’ says Sluizer, who has stayed in contact with River’s family.
In the film, River’s character is a hermit that lives on a nuclear testing site, located in the desert. Awaiting the end of the world he is surprised by an A-list Hollywood couple (Judy Davis and Jonathan Price) seeking shelter, he develops a worrying relationship with the wife.
DARK BLOOD is likely to face some copyright issues and so the title might yet change. The Dutch production house Eyeworks are lending a helping in to Sluizer to help overcome any issues that might occur. All being well the feature will reach a final cut by next year.
