Acclaimed filmmaker Kathryn Bigelow has found her next project at Netflix, pivoting from the previously scrapped “Aurora” adaptation to direct a new high-concept thriller for the streaming platform.
According to reports, Bigelow will helm an untitled film written by Noah Oppenheim that follows the White House’s real-time response to a missile threat on American soil. The tense premise is expected to be officially announced by Netflix at their upcoming upfront presentation.
Bigelow had originally been attached to direct “Aurora,” based on the David Koepp novel about a catastrophic solar storm, but parted ways with the project last year under unspecified circumstances. Despite rumors of friction over budget constraints, it seems no bridges were burned as Netflix quickly reteamed with the Oscar winner on this new prestigious property.
However, there are already indications of potential clashes over the new film’s scope and scale. Puck’s Matthew Belloni reports that new Netflix film chief Dan Lin, who recently took over for Scott Stuber, pushed Bigelow to reduce the movie’s budget and runtime in their initial meetings before reaching a compromise to move forward.
The return to Netflix marks a welcome collaboration for the 72-year-old director, whose last feature was 2017’s “Detroit.” Bigelow has been one of the industry’s most accomplished filmmakers for decades, having helmed acclaimed hits like “Point Break,” “Near Dark,” “The Hurt Locker” (which won her the Best Director Oscar), and “Zero Dark Thirty.”
While plot details are still under wraps, Bigelow’s new Netflix project allows her to tackle another high-stakes, contemporary thriller – a genre she has mastered throughout her storied career. With the streamer’s full support and resources behind her vision, anticipation will be high to see what Bigelow can deliver with her signature bold and uncompromising style.
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As one of the most revered directors working today, having Bigelow’s powerful filmmaking voiceBack in the Netflix fold represents a huge get for the platform’s original film slate. Assuming the production can avoid any further behind-the-scenes conflicts, her latest effort is poised to be an adrenaline-fueled must-watch when it ultimately premieres.
