Director Lee Isaac Chung has stepped away from the upcoming prequel to Ocean’s 11, which stars Margot Robbie and Bradley Cooper. The exit reportedly stems from creative differences, making Chung the second filmmaker to leave the project after Jay Roach previously departed.

Chung, known for directing Minari and the blockbuster sequel Twisters, had joined the project with a distinctive creative vision. His departure highlights ongoing challenges shaping the film’s direction.

Production company LuckyChap, founded by Margot Robbie, is producing the film for Warner Bros.. Both parties described the split as amicable and praised Chung as a talented filmmaker they hope to collaborate with again.

Screenwriter Carrie Solomon is currently developing the script, with the story expected to take place in 1960s Europe. The narrative will serve as an origin story set before the events of Steven Soderbergh’s 2001 hit Ocean’s Eleven.

That film starred George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, and Julia Roberts as a team of con artists planning an elaborate casino heist. Its success spawned two sequels and later inspired the female-led spin-offOcean’s Eight.

The franchise traces its roots back to the original 1960 film featuring members of Frank Sinatra’s Rat Pack. The new prequel aims to expand that legacy while introducing a fresh generation of characters.

The project also arrives during a period of corporate change in Hollywood as Warner Bros. navigates industry restructuring. Executives insist the studio remains committed to high-profile productions like the Ocean’s prequel despite leadership shifts.