Monkeypaw, Universal, and TIFF Unveil ‘No Drama’ Filmmaker Project in Collaborative Launch

Monkeypaw Productions, in cooperation with the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and the Universal Filmmakers Project, has launched NO DRAMA, a ground-breaking program aimed at developing upcoming filmmakers. Jordan Peele is spearheading the project, which invites filmmakers to confront their innermost fears and produce gripping horror stories that cross countries, time, places, and social boundaries.

The NO DRAMA program will select up to six writer-directors to help turn short films into full-length projects in collaboration with Monkey Paw and Universal Pictures. Jordan Peele emphasizes the need for personal and vulnerable viewpoints in creating intriguing monster stories, encouraging filmmakers to transform their concerns into thrilling storytelling that resonates.

Universal Pictures President Peter Cramer is proud to sponsor Monkeypaw’s NO DRAMA program, recognizing Jordan Peele and his team’s dedication to identifying and promoting rising talent in the business. The global program offers selected filmmakers a $50,000 stipend, exposure to studio production procedures, networking with industry professionals, and the opportunity to display their movies at TIFF in 2025.

TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey praises the collaboration with Monkeypaw and Universal, claiming that NO DRAMA represents a watershed moment in cinema’s evolution. TIFF hopes to stimulate innovation and push storytelling boundaries by assisting new filmmakers in their early careers, with the short films set to premiere during the 50th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival in 2025.

Janine Jones-Clark, Universal’s EVP of Inclusion, Talent, and Content, expressed thanks for the collaboration with Jordan Peele and Monkeypaw, highlighting the shared aim with TIFF to foster unique talent and tales that drive career momentum.

Filmmakers interested in the NO DRAMA initiative should submit their entries by Thursday, February 29th, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Visit here to apply and learn more about the initiative.