New Line Wins Heated Bidding War For Theo James Krekis Horror Package ‘Jealous People Are Ugly People’
New Line Cinema has secured film rights to 'Jealous People Are Ugly People', a horror adaptation from Greek-British filmmaker Theo James Krekis, following an intense multi-studio bidding war. The acquisition reflects the industry's heightened investment in elevated genre material from emerging talent, particularly following record-breaking commercial performances by similar projects from young creators working across digital and traditional platforms.
Krekis will direct and write the feature adaptation of his original short film, which received BBC commission and premiered at SXSW in 2026. The production brings together UK-based production company The Fold with Temple Hill Entertainment, whilst the director maintains an expansive development slate including a second feature with BBC Film, a television series in collaboration with Clerkenwell Films, and writing commitments on a new drama series.
- New Line Cinema acquired horror film 'Jealous People Are Ugly People' after a competitive bidding process involving over 10 studios, signalling strong industry appetite for elevated genre content from emerging filmmakers.
- The project adapts a BBC-commissioned short film that premiered at SXSW, capitalising on recent commercial successes of digitally-native horror from new creators.
- Director Theo James Krekis is simultaneously developing a second feature, television projects with established producers, and writing assignments on prestige drama series.