Five filmmakers selected for Monkeypaw Productions’ “No Drama Initiative” with TIFF & Universal Filmmakers Project
Monkeypaw Productions, the acclaimed company founded by Jordan Peele, has partnered with the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and Universal Filmmakers Project to launch the "No Drama Initiative." This global program is designed to identify and support emerging filmmakers in creating innovative genre content. Five participants have been selected for the inaugural cohort, with their projects set to premiere during TIFF 2025.
The "No Drama Initiative" challenges filmmakers to confront their deepest fears and express them through cinematic horror. Jordan Peele emphasized the unique voices of this year's class, stating, “Chandler, Charlie, Helena, Ariel, and Jared each bring a unique instinct to genre storytelling. I cannot wait for audiences to experience the monsters they’re cooking up.”
Each filmmaker receives a $50,000 USD grant from TIFF to produce a short film or proof of concept. The initiative provides unparalleled access to the industry, including workshops, mentorship from Monkeypaw and Universal executives, and exposure to major studio production processes.
Universal Pictures President Peter Cramer highlighted the program’s collaborative spirit, adding, “We are setting up the filmmakers for success by providing them with studio resources... and an incredible creative partnership with Jordan and the team at Monkeypaw.”
TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey expressed pride in collaborating on this initiative, which aligns with the festival’s mission to champion bold voices in cinema. He noted, “We are honored to have partnered on 'No Drama'... celebrating the next wave of visionary storytelling.”
The Filmmakers:
Chandler Crump: Based in NYC, Crump is a graduate of NYU's Tisch School. Her films, including Color Him Son and There’s Someone at the Door, explore feminist and social themes.
Charlie Dennis: A UK-based writer-director, Dennis blends humor and authenticity in his work. His Deaf-led short Silent World gained critical acclaim and was adapted into a TV series.
Helena Hawkes: From New Mexico, Hawkes brings her experience at Blumhouse Productions and mentorship with Leigh Whannell to craft female-driven horror narratives.
Jared Leaf: Operating out of Portland, OR, Leaf’s diverse portfolio spans genres and includes collaborations with Nike and projects like Decolonizing Design.
Ariel Zengotita: Based in Los Angeles, Zengotita’s award-winning films navigate psychological horror and dark comedy. His work has been featured at SXSW and Palm Springs ShortFest.
A Year of Immersion:
The program began with a four-day workshop at Universal Studios in October 2024 and will continue with a year-long curriculum of workshops and roundtables. Participants will screen their completed projects at TIFF 2025 in a showcase outside the festival's official selection. Monkeypaw and Universal will have the exclusive option to further develop these projects.
The "No Drama Initiative" underscores the commitment of Monkeypaw, TIFF, and Universal to fostering the next generation of diverse voices in genre filmmaking, while spotlighting stories that challenge societal boundaries and reimagine fear.