Bradley Cooper is reportedly negotiating to star alongside Margot Robbie in the upcoming prequel to the iconic Ocean’s Eleven franchise, now directed by Lee Isaac Chung, known for Minari and Twisters. This project is highly anticipated as it revisits the stylish heist world that captivated audiences in the original films.
Background and Creative Direction of the Prequel
The Ocean’s Eleven prequel, developed by Warner Bros. for several years, will serve as a narrative lead-in to Steven Soderbergh’s 2001 reboot, which itself reimagined the classic 1960 Rat Pack film featuring Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Carrie Solomon has been tasked with writing the screenplay, which is expected to be set in 1960s Europe, adding a retro and international flair to the globe-trotting crime caper.
Initially planned under director Jay Roach, the project now benefits from fresh vision through Chung’s leadership. Although specific story details remain confidential and the official title is unconfirmed, early information suggests the film will focus on how a new generation of con artists assembled prior to the well-known Las Vegas heist.
Legacy and Significance of the Ocean’s Series
The 2001 Ocean’s Eleven, featuring stars George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, and Julia Roberts, was a major commercial success and spawned sequels Ocean’s Twelve and Ocean’s Thirteen. Additionally, a 2018 spin-off titled Ocean’s 8 starred Sandra Bullock and Cate Blanchett, continuing the franchise’s popularity. This prequel aims to deepen the backstory of this world, offering audiences new insight into the origins of these sophisticated criminals.
