Paramount Pictures in Talks with Paul Feig to Direct ‘The Italian Job’ Follow-Up

​LOS ANGELES — Filmmaker Paul Feig is in early negotiations with Paramount Pictures to direct a follow-up to the 2003 heist film The Italian Job.

​The studio is currently searching for writers to develop the script, though no acting talent or producers are currently attached to the project. Early reports indicate the film is being positioned as a sequel to the 2003 iteration rather than another reboot of the property.

​Franchise Background and Previous Sequel Attempts

​Directed by F. Gary Gray, the 2003 version of The Italian Job served as a modern reimagining of the 1969 British classic starring Michael Caine.

• ​2003 Ensemble: The reboot featured an ensemble cast including Mark Wahlberg, Charlize Theron, Edward Norton, Jason Statham, Mos Def, and Seth Green. The plot followed a crew of thieves seeking revenge against a former ally while executing a complex gold heist, famous for its climactic chase sequence involving modified Mini Coopers through Los Angeles.

• ​Commercial Success: The film proved to be a solid commercial performer, grossing $176 million worldwide against a $60 million budget.

• ​Scrapped Plans: Following the 2003 release, Paramount spent several years developing a sequel titled The Brazilian Job, but the project was repeatedly delayed and ultimately abandoned.

​Feig’s Current Production Slate

​The Paramount discussions follow a major box-office victory for Feig. His recent thriller, The Housemaid, grossed approximately $400 million globally for Lionsgate earlier this year.

Before production can begin on The Italian Job sequel, Feig is scheduled to direct The Housemaid’s Secret, with actress Sydney Sweeney returning for the follow-up, which is slated for a theatrical release in December 2027. Paramount has not yet announced a projected production timeline or release window for the new heist installment. 

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