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Noah Baumbach has signed a major first-look film deal that will send his next movie to Warner Bros.’ new label, Clockwork, marking a return to theatrical distribution and the end of his five-year partnership with Netflix.
Details of the Warner Bros. and Clockwork agreement
The agreement is a first-look producing deal that officially begins in 2027. Under the pact, Baumbach will write, direct, and produce his next film. Production will be handled by two high-profile teams: David Heyman and Margot Robbie’s LuckyChap.
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Clockwork is Warner Bros.’ specialty label. It aims to back auteur-driven projects. The label is still building its slate and profile.
What we know about the upcoming film
Specifics about the movie are being kept under wraps. Studio insiders say the project will be released theatrically through Clockwork. This will be Baumbach’s first theatrical release since 2015.
- Role: Baumbach will serve as writer, director, and producer.
- Producers: David Heyman and LuckyChap (Margot Robbie).
- Release type: Theatrical distribution via Clockwork.
- Start date for deal: 2027.
Why this move ends his Netflix era
Baumbach spent the last five years under an exclusive film deal with Netflix. That relationship produced several titles, including both awards contenders and riskier experiments.
Although Netflix financed notable films in that run, the director’s new arrangement signals a strategic shift. The Clockwork deal emphasizes theatrical runs and partners with established producers known for commercial and awards-friendly films.
Baumbach’s recent filmography and awards track
In recent years, Baumbach delivered a string of films for Netflix. Highlights include:
- The Meyerowitz Stories — early Netflix collaboration.
- Marriage Story — earned multiple Oscar nominations.
- White Noise — controversial for its high production costs.
- Other titles in the Netflix era, which explored different creative directions.
He also has a history of high-profile screenwriting credits. Baumbach co-wrote Barbie with Greta Gerwig, a collaboration that brought him an Oscar nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay. Earlier credits include work with Wes Anderson on or inspired by projects like Fantastic Mr. Fox and The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou.
Clockwork’s leadership and current slate
Clockwork is led by Christian Parkes, a former Neon executive. The label is still establishing itself within Warner Bros. and is building a roster of director-driven films.
Early projects announced for Clockwork include films from Park Chan-wook and Sean Baker. The studio appears focused on a balance of auteur voices and commercially viable releases.
Key players behind the scenes
The Baumbach-Clockwork feature will be produced by industry heavyweight David Heyman and LuckyChap Productions, the banner co-founded by Margot Robbie. Their involvement signals strong studio confidence in the project’s commercial and awards potential.
- Baumbach’s representation: CAA, JSSK, and Narrative.
- David Heyman’s reps: Carlos Goodman and Eric Brooks of GGSSC.
- LuckyChap’s reps: Entertainment 360, CAA, attorney Jeff Bernstein, and Narrative.
Industry context and reactions
The move reflects broader shifts in studio strategies. Netflix has pivoted toward different content priorities since Baumbach’s original deal. Warner Bros. is expanding its specialty film offerings through Clockwork.
Entertainment outlets first reported the deal, and industry observers note the symbolic value of Baumbach returning to theatrical releases. For many filmmakers, a theatrical window still carries prestige and visibility that streaming-only releases sometimes lack.
