Netflix has once again pulled off a major Hollywood coup, outbidding some of the biggest names in the industry to secure global rights to the highly anticipated Natalie Portman-led romantic comedy Good Sex. The deal, which is valued at approximately $55 million, has been one of the most significant transactions to come out of this year's European Film Market (EFM) in Berlin. While this year’s market wasn’t exactly buzzing with big-ticket deals on the ground, negotiations behind the scenes have been intense, and Good Sex emerged as one of the most sought-after projects.
This high-profile package was first introduced by CAA Media Finance and FilmNation Entertainment ahead of the market, immediately sparking a fierce bidding war. Heavyweights like Warner Bros., Amazon, Apple, and Netflix were all vying for the rights, but Netflix ultimately emerged victorious. The price tag is staggering, more than doubling the film’s initial budget—an amount that becomes even more impressive when factoring in expected tax incentives from a planned New Jersey shoot. While not quite breaking the all-time EFM record set in 2022 when Sony shelled out $60 million for A Man Called Otto, Good Sex actually surpasses that deal when tax breaks are considered.
So, what’s all the buzz about? Good Sex is an exciting new project from writer-director Lena Dunham, a Golden Globe winner best known for creating Girls. It’s a timely and intriguing take on modern relationships, following a successful couples' therapist named Ally (played by Portman) as she finds herself at a crossroads. Turning 40 and fresh out of a decade-long failed relationship, Ally is reluctantly pushed back into New York’s chaotic dating scene by her best friend. What follows is an emotionally charged and steamy entanglement as she juggles two wildly different men: a 20-something Brooklyn hipster and a more conventional, successful 50-something Manhattanite named Alan. As her romantic escapades spiral into a full-blown identity crisis, Ally must confront her own conflicting desires before she risks losing both men—and maybe even herself.
Adding even more allure to the film, Portman isn't just starring; she’s also producing under her company, MountainA, alongside her longtime collaborator Sophie Mas. Dunham and Michael Cohen are producing through their Good Thing Going banner. Portman has previously expressed her admiration for Dunham’s work, particularly after being inspired by Tiny Furniture, Dunham’s breakout indie hit. With two powerhouse creatives at the helm, Good Sex promises to be a sharp, insightful, and undoubtedly entertaining exploration of modern romance.
The age-gap romance theme has been having a moment in Hollywood lately, with films like Babygirl and Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy tapping into the trend. With Good Sex, it’s Portman’s turn to dive into the complexities of dating someone significantly younger. Buyers who have gotten an early look at the script have been raving about it, further fueling anticipation for the project.
As for Portman, she’s been staying incredibly busy. Fresh off her buzzworthy roles in Black Swan and May December, she also has upcoming projects like Guy Ritchie’s Fountain of Youth and Cathy Yan’s The Gallerist in post-production. Meanwhile, Dunham is currently wrapping up work on Netflix’s mini-series Too Much, starring Will Sharpe and Megan Stalter.
Casting for the two key male roles in Good Sex is still underway, and with the deal now locked in, fans can expect more exciting announcements soon. Netflix, CAA, and FilmNation have yet to officially comment, but one thing is clear: Good Sex is shaping up to be one of the most exciting rom-coms to hit screens in the near future. With an A-list star, a bold and contemporary storyline, and a director known for her unfiltered take on relationships, this is one film that’s sure to get people talking.
Login