The stars are aligning, literally — Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Elizabeth Banks, Helena Bonham Carter, and Mindy Kaling — for the all-female redo of “Ocean’s Eleven.” Actually, hold up a moment, because it looks like it won’t exactly be a reboot. As we’ve reported, George Clooney‘s Danny Ocean from Steven Soderbergh‘s original trilogy has been eyed for a potential cameo role, but it’s likely one that won’t happen until after the first movie of what is now being called “Ocean’s Eight.” So that would suggest this new gang of thieves exists in a world where Danny Ocean is still bouncing around, and that seems to be the case.
READ MORE: Exclusive: Cate Blanchett Is Joining The All-Female ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ Film
Slashfilm caught up with Gary Ross, who will be directing the new movie, and he shared just how this new installment is connected to “Ocean’s Eleven.”
“I think it’s a pretty similar tone. You know, Steven Soderbergh and I are incredibly close friends, and we would not have done this if we weren’t. I don’t think he would’ve wanted anyone to do it if we weren’t. This is very much an extension and a continuation,” he said. “…We’re different filmmakers, obviously, so there will be those differences, but one of the things I’m drawn to is the amazing tone Steven was able to create, and we discuss that a lot….I’m in no way trying to reinvent the tone, and I’m thrilled and honored to be extending it. It’s really fun to work with.”
Essentially, it sounds like the approach they are taking is: If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. This won’t be a gritty reboot (thank god) or any kind of reinvention, and you know what? That’s just fine by us. In fact, in recent memory, there hasn’t really been a really good, breezy blockbuster with a big, star-studded cast. We’re about due, and the upcoming heist flick could be a lot of fun with that cast.
“Ocean’s Eight” is aiming to shoot late fall and early winter, and we’re looking forward to seeing who comes on board next.