Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions has partnered with the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and the Universal Filmmakers Project to launch No Drama, an initiative aimed at discovering and nurturing emerging global filmmakers.

Initiated by the actor, comedian and filmmaker, No Drama challenges filmmakers to explore horror through personal, cultural, temporal and societal lenses.

Up to six writer-directors will be selected to develop short films, with the ultimate goal being to transform them into full-length projects in collaboration with Monkeypaw and Universal Pictures.

Each filmmaker will receive a US$50,000 grant for their short film, exposure to major studio production processes, access to industry professionals for network development, and the opportunity to showcase their projects at TIFF in 2025. The submission deadline is Feb. 29.

“A good monster story comes from a perspective that’s very personal and very vulnerable. It’s a story that is so deeply personal that you think no one else can relate to it,” said Peele in a statement. “That’s exactly the purpose of No Drama – to challenge filmmakers to turn their deepest fears into fun, thrilling stories that need to be told.”

TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey added: “Having one of the best storytellers, like Jordan Peele and his talented team at Monkeypaw, on board is another step in transforming cinema.”

Photo of Jordan Peele by Eugene Gologursky/Getty Images for 2023 Tribeca Festival