Bradley cooper poised to direct & star in new ocean's eleven prequel

Hollywood heavyweight Bradley Cooper is reportedly in line to direct, write, and star in the upcoming prequel to the 2001 film, according to sources close to the project. The news adds significant momentum to a project that has seen several directorial changes, with Warner Bros. eager to maintain a production schedule that aims to have the film completed before the year's end.

Cooper takes the helm of the next ocean's chapter

The film, set in 1960s Europe, will explore the events leading up to the original 1960 film and the 2001 reboot starring George Clooney, Julia Roberts, and Brad Pitt. While Clooney is developing a new Ocean's film focusing on the older crew, Cooper’s involvement promises a different, potentially more focused narrative. Sources indicate that Warner Bros. wants Cooper not just as a performer, but as a driving creative force, a move that could streamline production and ensure a cohesive vision for the story.

This isn't Cooper's first foray into directing; he made his directorial debut with 2018’s A Star Is Born, which he also penned and starred in. His recent work includes Maestro (2023) and the upcoming Is This Thing On (2025). The project represents a significant risk for Warner Bros., given the previous directorial shake-ups, but the potential payoff – a fresh take on a beloved franchise – is considerable.

The original Ocean’s Eleven film premiered in 1960, establishing a heist template that continues to resonate. The 2001 version modernized the concept and became a major box office success. The franchise has since expanded with sequels and the all-female Ocean's Eight in 2018. Cooper's potential involvement suggests a return to the series' roots, offering a glimpse into the origins of the legendary heist.

The speed of Cooper's potential commitment is key. With previous directors departing, securing a creative lead quickly will be vital to keeping the film on track. The story reportedly centers on a group of cons operating in Europe during the 1960s, laying the groundwork for the iconic team we know from the later films.

Lex Briscuso is a film and television critic and a freelance Entertainment writer for IGN. You can follow her on Twitter at @nikonamerica.