A female remake of “Ocean’s Eleven” is in the works. Unofficially titled “Ocean’s Ocho,” the elite group of outlaws will be reduced from 11 to eight, to be played by high-profile actresses.
The reboot will be produced by Steven Soderbergh, who previously directed the three Ocean movies. Gary Ross is slated to serve as director of “Ocean’s Ocho.” Olivia Milch wrote the script, although the new story will not be directly related to the previous films.
According to Empire Online, Sandra Bullock and Cate Blanchett will reprise the power tandem previously comprised of Brad Pitt and George Clooney. Bullock’s character is Danny Ocean’s (Clooney) sister. Pitt previously played Rusty Ryan, the assistant leader of the team.Initially, there were rumors that Clooney will have a cameo appearance in “Ocean’s Ocho,” although the actor subsequently stated that the first spinoff should be a standalone and then he will be open to future appearances.
SlashFilm noted that other members of the criminal group allegedly include Helena Bonham Carter, Mindy Kaling and Elizabeth Banks. Jennifer Lawrence was eyed to play a role, but her busy schedule reportedly did not allow her to join the cast. Elizabeth Banks will most likely sign on. since she and Gary Ross have a good working relationship. The two last worked together in “Seabiscuit” in 2003 and “The Hunger Games” franchise. Banks’ role has yet to be announced. This means that there are three more stars to be added to the all-female spinoff cast of “Ocean’s Ocho.”
The Ringer wrote that other great choices to round out Ocean’s Ocho include Melissa McCarthy, Condola Rashad, Dakota Johnson, Martha Stewart, Rihanna and the Olsen twins. Jennifer Lopez would have been great playing the role that Bullock was given. McCarthy could provide the comic relief while the others could offer the style and money.
Plans to create “Ocean’s Ocho” have been existent for a few years, with the groundwork having been laid by Soderbergh, Clooney and Jerry Weintraub. However, Weintraub died in 2015, putting the project on hold temporarily. Ross is a close friend of Soderbergh who eventually decided that he wanted to direct the film. Soderbergh previously helped work on Ross’ adaptation of “The Hunger Games.”
The plot of “Ocean’s Ocho” will reportedly focus on a group of thieves who will attempt to steal a previous necklace from the Met Ball to frame a corrupt gallery owner. More updates and details are expected soon.
