Ocean’s Prequel Hits Snag as Director Departs Over Creative Differences
The highly anticipated prequel to the iconic Ocean’s film franchise, slated to feature Australian superstar Margot Robbie and heartthrob Ryan Gosling, has reportedly seen its second director step away from the project. Lee Isaac Chung, known for his critically acclaimed work on Twisters, has apparently exited the film due to “creative differences,” a move confirmed by Warner Bros.
Chung had taken the helm last year, replacing Jay Roach, who was initially attached to the project. The prequel, first announced by Warner Bros. in 2022, is being brought to life by Robbie’s production company, Lucky Chap Entertainment, which she co-founded with producer Josey McNamara.
Warner Bros. addressed the departure, stating to Deadline, “This is an amicable split due to creative differences.” The studio, along with Lucky Chap Entertainment, issued a joint statement praising Chung’s contribution: “Lee Isaac is a singular filmmaking talent whose vision and partnership have been invaluable to Warner Bros and Lucky Chap throughout this journey. Our experience with him has only deepened our enthusiasm to collaborate on future projects together.” Representatives for Chung and Warner Bros. have been approached for further comment by The Independent.
A Glimpse into the Past: The 1960s European Setting
While details surrounding the Ocean’s prequel remain largely under wraps, circulating reports suggest that Robbie and Gosling will be stepping into the roles of the parents of Danny Ocean, the character famously portrayed by George Clooney. Danny Ocean was the charismatic leader of the heist crew in the 2001 remake of Ocean’s Eleven, a role originally embodied by Frank Sinatra in the classic 1960 crime-comedy. Clooney reprised his role in the subsequent sequels, Ocean’s Twelve (2004) and Ocean’s Thirteen (2007).
The original trilogy, along with its predecessor, was famously set against the glitzy backdrop of Las Vegas. However, according to Variety, the new prequel is expected to transport audiences to 1960s Europe, offering a fresh geographical and temporal setting for the burgeoning Ocean family legacy. Carrie Solomon, the writer behind A Family Affair, is currently penning the screenplay for the prequel. The narrative is reportedly set to explore events that precede the elaborate casino heist masterminded by Danny Ocean and his crew, which included stars like Matt Damon, Brad Pitt, and Julia Roberts in the 2001 film.
Clooney’s Blessing and a Potential Ocean’s 14
George Clooney himself has publicly given his endorsement to Robbie and Gosling’s casting, even playfully suggesting a familial connection. In a 2023 interview with Variety, Clooney mused, “Margot Robbie’s my mother? I’ve always thought that. And Ryan Gosling is my father, and when you think about it, it makes sense. Truly.” This lighthearted commentary hints at the potential for a narrative that delves into the origins of the Ocean dynasty.
Clooney also shared last year that there were plans afoot for a potential Ocean’s 14, indicating that a “great script” was already in development. He revealed to E! News, “We just got the budget approved at Warner Bros. and we’re trying to set up. It’s just scheduling, so it’s just setting a start date for us. Probably start in about nine or 10 months, shooting.” These comments suggest a continued interest in expanding the Ocean’s universe, despite the current production hurdles for the prequel.
Remembering a Beloved Co-Star
The Ocean’s family also recently mourned the loss of co-star Scott L. Schwartz in 2024, who passed away from congestive heart failure. Schwartz played the memorable character of Bruiser, the gentle giant in Stephen Soderbergh’s trilogy. He was one of a select group of actors to appear in all three films alongside the core heist ensemble, leaving a notable absence in the hearts of fans and his fellow cast members.
