Sean Baker is finally getting paid.
Last week, Warner Bros. unveiled its new indie label, Warner Bros. Clockwork, and announced that Baker would direct its inaugural feature, “Ti Amo!” The film is currently aiming for a 2027 release, with cameras expected to roll this September.
For Baker, coming off the Oscar-winning momentum of “Anora,” this is a major career turning point.
According to Variety, Clockwork picked up distribution rights for “Ti Amo!” for a hefty $22M. That number includes the film’s budget, which is expected to land at around $10M. More importantly, Baker himself is set to receive a multimillion-dollar payday to write, direct, edit, and produce the film.
Another sign of Baker’s post-Oscar clout is that the deal wasn’t focused on attaching major stars. In fact, according to the outlet, “Ti Amo!” is not expected to cast an A-lister at all. The studio appears to be betting on Baker rather star power. How refreshing.
It’s a striking development for Baker, who lived in a tiny West Hollywood apartment, and famously left the 2025 Oscars, mid-ceremony, to walk his dog at home, a reminder of just how modest his lifestyle has been despite all the acclaim and awards.
“Ti Amo!” is rumored to be set in Italy and inspired by the Italian sex comedies of the ’60s and ’70s. Vera Gemma is reportedly involved, which would align perfectly with Baker’s interest in unconventional performers. The project follows an extraordinary run that includes “Tangerine,” “The Florida Project,” and “Red Rocket,” culminating in the Palme d’Or and Best Picture triumph of “Anora.”