Netflix has acquired the worldwide distribution rights to Good Sex, a romantic comedy starring Natalie Portman and directed by Lena Dunham. The streaming platform outbid Warner Bros., Apple, and Amazon, securing the project for approximately $55 million.
The deal emerged as one of the largest at the European Film Market (EFM) in Berlin. The budget for the film was originally much lower, but with tax incentives tied to an expected New Jersey shoot, the total value of the deal surpasses previous high-profile acquisitions.
Portman plays Ally, a couples’ therapist nearing 40 who, after a decade-long relationship ends, is pushed back into New York’s dating scene. She finds herself involved in two relationships—one with a 20-something Brooklyn hipster and another with a successful man in his 50s. As she juggles both, her situation forces her to confront her personal struggles. Casting for the two male roles is still in progress.
Dunham is writing and directing the film, with Portman and Sophie Mas producing under their MountainA banner. Michael Cohen is producing through Good Thing Going, Dunham’s production company. Portman has previously spoken about her admiration for Dunham’s filmmaking approach, citing Tiny Furniture as an early influence.
The project sparked significant interest before the market, drawing competitive offers from multiple studios. Buyers who reviewed the script responded positively to its approach to modern relationships.
Portman’s upcoming projects include Guy Ritchie’s Fountain of Youth and Cathy Yan’s The Gallerist. Dunham is also working on the Netflix miniseries Too Much, starring Will Sharpe and Megan Stalter.
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Netflix has not yet announced whether Good Sex will receive a theatrical release or debut exclusively on its platform.
