Netflix has officially announced a thrilling new crime drama titled "The Cackling of the Dodos," set to be directed by the acclaimed Jason Bateman. This project will feature a star-studded cast including Sam Rockwell and Woody Harrelson, promising a compelling cinematic experience. The narrative, adapted from an original screenplay by novelist Rye Curtis, delves into a dark tale of a small-town farmer who stumbles upon a shocking discovery, leading him into an unforeseen and chaotic cover-up. This latest venture underscores Bateman's continued fruitful partnership with Netflix, building on his prior successes with the streaming giant.
Jason Bateman to Helm Netflix Crime Thriller Starring Rockwell and Harrelson
On March 18, 2026, during its annual preview event, Netflix's head of film, Dan Lin, unveiled an exciting new addition to their upcoming slate: "The Cackling of the Dodos." The film will be directed by Emmy-winning actor and director Jason Bateman, known for his critically acclaimed work on the series "Ozark." Joining him are celebrated actors Sam Rockwell and Woody Harrelson, set to bring their dynamic presence to the screen.
The story, penned by novelist Rye Curtis, author of "Kingdomtide," centers on George, a humble farmer whose life takes a dark turn after discovering a body in a grain bin. This grim finding plunges him into an elaborate and messy cover-up orchestrated by his boss, Denny. The film promises a gripping narrative filled with suspense and unexpected twists.
This collaboration further solidifies Jason Bateman's relationship with Netflix. His production company, Aggregate Films, which he runs with Michael Costigan, is behind the project. Bateman's previous endeavors with Netflix include his starring role in the hugely popular crime series "Ozark," which garnered 45 Emmy nominations during its four-season run. He also recently starred in the airport thriller "Carry On," a global top 10 hit for Netflix, and executive-produced and starred in the crime limited series "Black Rabbit," for which he received a SAG/AFTRA Actor Award nomination.
Sam Rockwell's recent credits include the sci-fi adventure comedy "Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die," directed by Gore Verbinski, and an appearance in HBO's acclaimed comedy "White Lotus." Woody Harrelson has also been busy, featuring in James L. Brooks' ensemble comedy "Ella McCay" last year and reprising his role as a mysterious magician in "Now You See Me: Now You Don't." The combined talent of Bateman, Rockwell, and Harrelson is expected to deliver a memorable and engaging thriller for Netflix subscribers worldwide.
The announcement of "The Cackling of the Dodos" signifies Netflix's ongoing commitment to producing high-quality, star-driven content. The combination of Jason Bateman's proven directorial talent with the formidable acting prowess of Sam Rockwell and Woody Harrelson suggests a film that will not only captivate audiences but also potentially explore complex themes of morality and consequence. This project adds another exciting chapter to Netflix's growing library of original films, reinforcing its position as a major player in the entertainment industry.
