As first reported by What’s on Netflix, David Fincher has seemingly set up his next film at Netflix. It’s called “Bitterroot,” and is being described as a Western crime thriller. Offers have been made to two leads actors.
A new posting on Production List indicates that production is supposed to begin on the film in January 2025. That’s not what I’m hearing; I was told a shoot in Q1 2025 is being planned, possibly in March or April. They’re waiting for the snow to melt before production begins on this one.
In addition to the PL posting, we also have an official synopsis for “Bitterroot”:
Francis Lee, Sr., a 78-year-old WWII veteran and Montana rancher, is burdened by heart disease, diabetes, and medical bills. Estranged from his son and granddaughter, and grieving his wife’s death, his only comfort comes from outings with his caretaker, Maya. A brief moment of hope arises when he wins a million-dollar sweepstakes, but it quickly turns to despair after becoming a victim of financial fraud, pushing him to his limits.
Michael Gilio wrote the script, which was originally part of the 2008 Black List. Gilio’s other writing credits include “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” and “Dark Harvest.” Back in the day, the “Bitterroot” script was described as being similar to Clint Eastwood’s “Unforgiven”.
This would be Fincher’s first foray in the Western genre. I’m actually surprised the trades haven’t pounced on this story yet. Seemingly, there are actors attached, and the film is definitely in pre-production mode.
Fincher, who recently renewed his Netflix contract until 2027, has at least four different projects in various stages of development at Netflix, including “Squid Game: America” and his “Chinatown” prequel series. He’s released two films with the streamer: 2020’s “Mank” and 2023’s “The Killer.”