Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions is gearing up for the second edition of its “No Drama” filmmaker initiative, presented in partnership with Universal Film.
\n\nThe global initiative — developed by Universal’s Filmmaker & Content Strategies group — launched in 2024 as a one-year, non-exclusive program that supports emerging genre filmmakers by providing access and industry exposure in partnership with the studio’s term-deal producers. The first cohort of “No Drama” filmmakers debuted their short films at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, earning widespread critical acclaim and award wins at subsequent festivals. Eighty percent of the inaugural class have also secured agent or management representation.
\n\n“We are thrilled to reunite with Monkeypaw Productions for the ‘No Drama’ initiative to champion the next generation of genre storytellers,” said Universal Pictures president Peter Cramer. “Jordan and his team bring an unmatched expertise and passion to this initiative, making them the ultimate partners to help elevate these new voices.”
\n\nFor the second installment, Monkeypaw and Universal have teamed with American Cinematheque, which will provide a $50,000 grant to up to three filmmakers, who will direct their submitted short film scripts with the goal of developing the proofs of concept into full-length projects. (This year, each…
Original source: https://variety.com/
