The “Ocean’s” franchise is gearing up for a new chapter, as George Clooney has confirmed that a fourth installment, tentatively referred to as ‘Ocean’s 14,’ is moving forward with Warner Bros. The project is expected to reunite original stars, including Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Don Cheadle, and Julia Roberts. Clooney revealed to E! News that the film is likely to begin production next year following the recent approval of its budget by Warner Bros.
The project will be produced under Clooney’s Smokehouse Pictures banner, which has been closely associated with the franchise. David Leitch, known for his work on ‘The Fall Guy‘ and ‘Bullet Train,’ is in talks to direct the sequel. Leitch previously collaborated with Brad Pitt on Bullet Train, and his involvement suggests a combination of high-octane action with the franchise’s signature heist storytelling. Leitch’s other notable directorial credits include ‘John Wick,’ ‘Atomic Blonde,’ ‘Deadpool 2,‘ and ‘Hobbs & Shaw.‘
Clooney Promises a Fresh Heist Story Honoring the Original Trilogy, While Distancing It from Reported Prequel Plans
Clooney first hinted at another Ocean’s film in a 2023 interview with Uproxx, describing the script as “really good” and “actually great.” While he stopped short of officially naming the project Ocean’s 14, he compared the story’s tone to the 1979 heist comedy ‘Going in Style,’ which revolves around three senior citizens pulling off a sophisticated robbery. Clooney emphasized that regardless of its title, the new film aims to retain the collaborative spirit and clever planning that defined the original trilogy.
The Ocean’s series, initially directed by Steven Soderbergh, began in 2001 with ‘Ocean’s Eleven,’ starring Clooney, Pitt, Damon, Cheadle, and Affleck, among others. The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $450 million worldwide. It was followed by ‘Ocean’s Twelve‘ in 2004 ($362 million) and ‘Ocean’s Thirteen‘ in 2007 ($311 million). In 2018, the franchise expanded with the female-centered spin-off ‘Ocean’s 8,’ starring Sandra Bullock as Debbie Ocean, Danny Ocean’s sister, alongside Cate Blanchett, Rihanna, Helena Bonham Carter, Sarah Paulson, Awkwafina, Mindy Kaling, and Anne Hathaway. The spin-off grossed $297 million globally.
Leitch’s entry into the franchise is distinct from other reported expansions. According to Variety, earlier this year, the Barbie co-stars Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling expressed interest in an Ocean’s Eleven prequel set in 1960s Europe, to be directed by Jay Roach and written by Carrie Solomon. This prequel project appears to be separate from Clooney’s new film and will likely explore different characters and timelines.
Ocean’s 14’ Schedule Set, and a Promised Reunion with Original Cast and Classic Heist Thrills
Regarding the upcoming production, Clooney noted that the main challenge remains scheduling, stating, “It’s just scheduling, so it’s just setting a start date for us. Probably start in about nine or ten months, shooting.” He added that reconnecting with his co-stars would be an enjoyable experience, noting that they remain really dear friends.
With the combination of the original cast, Leitch’s action-oriented direction, and a strong script, Ocean’s 14 is positioned to carry forward the franchise’s legacy of clever heists, ensemble dynamics, and commercial appeal. Fans can expect a balance of intricate planning, humor, and high-stakes suspense reminiscent of the original trilogy.
