Director Lee Isaac Chung exits the 'Ocean's Eleven' prequel due to creative differences. Warner Bros. searches for new director for Margot Robbie-produced film.
- March 16, 2026
AceShowbiz - Lee Isaac Chung, the director behind the recent blockbuster Twisters, has stepped away from directing the upcoming "Ocean's Eleven" prequel at Warner Bros. Pictures. The departure is reportedly due to creative differences, according to a spokesperson for Warner Bros. who described the split as amicable.
The studio is currently searching for a new director to take over the project. The prequel, produced by Margot Robbie through her LuckyChap banner, promises to explore new territory within the well-known franchise.
Warner Bros. and LuckyChap praised Chung's unique filmmaking talent and expressed appreciation for his collaboration throughout the project's development. They also emphasized their eagerness to work with him again on future endeavors, highlighting the positive working relationship despite the parting.
The screenplay for the prequel comes from Carrie Solomon, known for writing "A Family Affair." While plot specifics have not been disclosed, the film is set in Europe during the 1960s, offering a fresh backdrop for the "Ocean's Eleven" story.
Since the 2001 release of "Ocean's Eleven," the franchise has become a global phenomenon, generating three sequels and earning over $1.4 billion worldwide. The original 1960 film starred iconic entertainers Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr., marking the franchise’s longstanding popularity.
Lee Isaac Chung gained widespread acclaim for his breakout film Minari, which won both the Grand Jury and Audience Awards at Sundance in 2020. The film also achieved Golden Globe and Critics' Choice Awards, along with nominations for the Academy, Independent Spirit, BAFTA, and SAG Awards. It was honored as one of the top ten films of 2020 by both the American Film Institute and the National Board of Review, which also awarded Chung Best Original Screenplay.
Following Minari, Chung directed Twisters, which set a record for the best opening weekend box office of any natural disaster film. His previous work includes the critically acclaimed Munyurangabo, which premiered at Cannes in 2007, and directing episodes of popular series such as The Mandalorian and Skeleton Crew.
The news of Chung’s exit was first reported by Deadline, marking a significant update in the development of the "Ocean's Eleven" prequel as Warner Bros. moves forward with new creative leadership.
