Exclusive reports reveal that buyers at the European Film Market (EFM) are eagerly vying for the new rom-com “Good Sex.” Major players such as Warner Bros, Amazon, Apple, and Netflix are reportedly engaged in a fierce bidding war over the project, with offers nearing the $45 million mark, hinting at the potential for even higher bids. Oscar-winning actress Natalie Portman is set to take the lead role in this highly anticipated film, which promises to be both engaging and thought-provoking.
The project is not just notable for its star power; it is also crafted by award-winning writer and director Lena Dunham, known for her work on “Girls.” CAA Media Finance and Film Nation Entertainment initiated the project ahead of the market, resulting in notable interest from theatrical buyers and streaming platforms alike, particularly at what has otherwise been a subdued EFM so far.
The film’s premise reflects contemporary romantic trends, particularly age-gap relationships, a theme that has seen a resurgence in popularity following hits like “Babygirl” and “Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy.” In “Good Sex,” Portman portrays Ally, a successful couples’ therapist approaching her 40th birthday, who finds herself reluctantly thrust back into the chaotic New York dating scene by her best friend.
As Ally navigates her love life, she embarks on a passionate fling with a 20-something Brooklyn hipster, all while trying to cultivate a more stable relationship with Alan, a successful man in his 50s from Manhattan. This romantic dilemma soon escalates into an identity crisis for Ally, as she struggles to balance her feelings for both men while understanding her own desires and avoiding heartbreak.
Currently, casting for the male leads is underway, and Portman, alongside producer Sophie Mas, will work through their company, MountainA, with Dunham and Michael Cohen also producing under their banner, Good Thing Going. Portman has previously expressed her admiration for Dunham’s filmmaking talents, citing the impact of Dunham’s film “Tiny Furniture” on her own career.
This film marks another milestone for Portman, who is also involved in other projects, including Guy Ritchie’s “Fountain Of Youth” and Cathy Yan’s “The Gallerist.” Meanwhile, Dunham is in post-production on a Netflix mini-series titled “Too Much,” which features Will Sharpe and Megan Stalter. With such a wealth of talent and potential, “Good Sex” is set to be a film worth watching, capturing the complexities of modern romance.
