Jude Law and Jason Bateman Film as Unlikely Siblings in Netflix’s Black Rabbit

New York City streets became a live movie set this week as Jude Law and Jason Bateman were spotted filming their new Netflix series Black Rabbit. The highly anticipated drama not only reunites Bateman with his Ozark co-star Laura Linney but also marks a rare collaboration between two Hollywood heavyweights in leading roles as brothers.

Familiar Faces in a New Story

In the scenes shot in Manhattan, Law and Bateman were seen stepping into character as siblings Jake and Vince Friedken. According to Netflix’s official synopsis, Jake, played by Jude Law, is the owner of a thriving New York City hotspot. When he allows his unpredictable brother Vince (Bateman) back into his life, he unwittingly opens the door to escalating dangers that could unravel everything he has built.

The setup promises a gripping narrative of family tension, loyalty, and betrayal—hallmarks of Bateman’s recent career success. The choice to pair him opposite Law, best known for his charismatic yet layered performances, hints at a series that blends star power with emotional intensity.

Laura Linney’s On-Set Reunion

Adding to the excitement was the presence of Laura Linney, who was spotted chatting with her co-stars between takes. Linney and Bateman shared the screen for five years on Ozark, where they played the morally conflicted couple Marty and Wendy Byrde. Their on-screen partnership became one of television’s most talked-about pairings, culminating in a slew of awards and critical acclaim before the series wrapped in 2022.

Linney appeared relaxed on set, dressed in comfortable clothes and trainers, a practical choice for what is expected to be a long shoot day. For fans of Ozark, seeing her alongside Bateman again sparks anticipation about the kind of complex relationships that Black Rabbit will explore.

A Blend of On-Screen and Behind-the-Camera Talent

Jason Bateman is taking on double duty with this series. In addition to starring as Vince, he is directing the first two episodes, ensuring his vision helps shape the tone of the show. Bateman’s track record behind the camera has been widely praised—he won an Emmy for directing an episode of Ozark and has helmed several other acclaimed television projects.

Linney, too, is stepping behind the camera, directing the third and fourth episodes of Black Rabbit. It’s a move that demonstrates Netflix’s confidence in the artistic sensibilities of its stars and also suggests a collaborative environment where actors have a strong hand in shaping the creative outcome.

This layered approach may provide Black Rabbit with the same kind of authenticity and tension that made Ozark a standout in Netflix’s lineup.

Jude Law Brings Energy to Set

Onlookers reported that Jude Law was in high spirits during the shoot, smiling and chatting with crew members between takes. At one point, he was filmed outside a building emblazoned with the title Black Rabbit before climbing into a vintage car—a moment that reinforced the show’s stylish aesthetic.

Law, whose career spans from The Talented Mr. Ripley to Sherlock Holmes and more recently Fantastic Beasts, is known for injecting charm and unpredictability into his roles. His portrayal of Jake Friedken is expected to bring complexity to a character caught between ambition and loyalty.

A Series Two Years in the Making

Black Rabbit was first announced in October 2022, immediately drawing attention due to its high-profile cast and creative team. The project has been described as a tense sibling drama set against the backdrop of New York nightlife, an environment ripe for intrigue and danger.

Netflix has invested heavily in character-driven thrillers, and Black Rabbit seems poised to follow in the footsteps of series like Ozark and Bloodline. With Bateman’s proven ability to balance suspense with emotional depth, and Law’s natural magnetism, the show already carries the hallmarks of a prestige drama.

A Dynamic That Promises Sparks

The decision to cast Bateman and Law as brothers is central to the show’s dramatic pull. Bateman has long excelled at playing characters whose calm exteriors conceal inner chaos, while Law often shines in roles that demand charm tinged with menace. Together, they are set to create an electric sibling dynamic, one where love, rivalry, and danger intermingle.

For audiences, the prospect of watching the pair navigate brotherhood under the pressure of external threats is reason enough to mark Black Rabbit on their must-watch lists. Add in Linney’s directorial contribution and her potential role on screen, and the project becomes one of Netflix’s most promising offerings on the horizon.

Final Word

As filming continues in New York, Black Rabbit is shaping up to be a blend of noir-inspired style, familial drama, and suspense. With Jude Law’s high-energy presence, Jason Bateman’s dual role as star and director, and Laura Linney’s reunion with her Ozark co-star, the show carries both pedigree and promise.

For fans of tightly wound thrillers with complicated relationships at their core, Black Rabbit may prove to be Netflix’s next big hit.