Oscar-nominated writer and director Noah Baumbach has signed a three-year, first-look agreement for features at Warner Bros., marking a major shift away from his long exclusive pact at Netflix, according to studio announcements. The new deal takes effect in 2027, and Baumbach’s inaugural project under the partnership will be released by Clockwork, an upstart indie label run by Neon veteran Christian Parkes, as reported by industry sources.
The New Project and Production Team
Baumbach will write, direct, and produce the upcoming film, which sources familiar with the script say follows two college students in New York City. David Heyman and LuckyChap are attached as producers on the untitled feature, which will receive a wide theatrical release. That theatrical rollout stands in contrast to Baumbach’s recent output; his past four films—”The Meyerowitz Stories,” “Marriage Story,” “White Noise,” and “Jay Kelly”—all debuted on Netflix following his 2021 exclusive deal.
Did you know? Noah Baumbach co-wrote “Barbie” alongside partner Greta Gerwig. The film stands as the biggest film in Warner Bros. history, making the studio’s recruitment of the filmmaker a natural fit.
From Streaming Back to Theaters
The move brings Baumbach back to a traditional theatrical studio model after spending years in the streaming ecosystem. During his tenure at Netflix, the director praised the platform as a creative home, stating that it took him 25 years to find a true home in the industry. Netflix co-CEO and Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos and Global Head of Netflix Films Scott Stuber both championed his humanist storytelling during that partnership, which yielded an Academy Award win for Laura Dern in “Marriage Story.” Now, Warner Bros. has secured his talents as the Burbank studio continues building out the slate for its Clockwork label, which also includes Sean Baker’s upcoming Italian sex comedy “Ti Amo!” set to film in January.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Noah Baumbach’s Warner Bros. deal begin?
The three-year, first-look agreement officially takes effect in 2027.
Which studio label is releasing Baumbach’s next film?
Clockwork, Warner Bros.’ upstart indie label run by Christian Parkes, will release the untitled project.
What is Baumbach’s next movie about?
While exact details remain under wraps, sources familiar with the script report that the film follows two college students in New York City.
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