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Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions and Universal Film Team With American Cinematheque and Beyond Fest for ‘No Drama’ Initiative (EXCLUSIVE)
Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions and Universal Film are launching the second edition of their “No Drama” initiative to support emerging genre filmmakers. In partnership with American Cinematheque and Beyond Fest, the programme aims to give new writer-directors funding, industry exposure and a route towards developing short films into feature-length projects.
Up to three filmmakers will receive $50,000 grants to make shorts based on submitted scripts, each accompanied by a feature-length treatment. The films will premiere at Beyond Fest in 2027, while Monkeypaw and Universal will have first-look options; submissions close on 30 September at 11:59 p.m. PT. The first cohort achieved strong festival recognition, with 80% securing representation and several filmmakers receiving awards, screenings or places in further development programmes.
In short
- Monkeypaw and Universal are expanding their emerging horror filmmakers initiative.
- Up to three filmmakers will receive $50,000 grants.
- Finished shorts will premiere at Beyond Fest in 2027.
Explained simply
Monkeypaw Productions is a film company founded by filmmaker Jordan Peele, known for producing genre films. Universal Film is part of Universal Pictures, a major film studio. American Cinematheque and Beyond Fest are organisations that present films and festivals in Los Angeles.
The initiative is designed to help emerging writer-directors make short films in genres such as horror and thriller. Selected filmmakers receive funding and a festival screening, while a feature-length treatment gives them a way to develop the story further. The first-look options give Monkeypaw and Universal an opportunity to consider the projects for future development.
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