NO DRAMA

ABOUT NO DRAMA

Fear is universal. Monsters are personal. NO DRAMA asks filmmakers to submit short film scripts that redefine horror – across cultures, generations, and societies, revealing the monsters we all carry within us.

NO DRAMA is a global short film development and production initiative for writer-directors with a theatrical and commercial sensibility who can demonstrate a passion for telling genre-centered stories. NO DRAMA builds upon Universal’s and Monkeypaw’s commitment to elevating the voices of early career filmmakers.

NO DRAMA offers resources and support throughout the filmmakers’ creative journey, with special focus on their individual strengths and areas for future growth. Up to three filmmakers will be selected to receive a grant to produce their submitted short film scripts. During the one-year non-exclusive talent experience, selected participants will have the opportunity to engage in roundtables and workshops to enrich their creative process as they produce a short film.

APPLY HERE

SUPPORT & RESOURCES

Selected filmmakers will receive:

  • A financial grant to turn their submitted short script into a short film
  • Mentorship and enrichment touchpoints with Monkeypaw, Universal, and American Cinematheque executives
  • Eligibility to screen completed short film at upcoming 2027 Beyond Fest
  • First-look option consideration of short film with Universal Pictures and Monkeypaw Productions

RULES & TERMS

NO DRAMA seeks to amplify dynamic filmmakers with a passion for genre-centered stories. All participants must meet the following criteria:

  • Must be a writer-director with a unique and innovative perspective who demonstrates an interest in creating content that resonates with a global audience.
  • Must be passionate about sub-genres including horror, fantasy, futurism, sci-fiction, suspense-thrillers, magical realism and more, including comedic satire.
  • Must have previous experience directing a short film, proof of concept, music video, web series, TV episode, and/or feature film.
  • Must be the sole writer and sole director of any material submitted and own the rights. Material from writing teams will not be accepted.
  • Must have the legal right to work in the United States.
  • Must be 21+ years old on or before December 1, 2026.
  • Must be able to participate in person in Los Angeles if provided with ample notice.
  • Must have a completed submission submitted by the deadline September 30, 2026 at 11:59pm PDT.

Any applicant who does not match the aforementioned criteria is ineligible to participate.

BEFORE STARTING A NO DRAMA SUBMISSION, REVIEW THE CHECKLIST BELOW:

  1. The applicant must meet the eligibility requirements for NO DRAMA and agree to provide all the required submission materials.
  2. The applicant must read all FAQs (below) thoroughly before submitting.
  3. The applicant must create a new project under the “My Projects” section of their profile for this specific program application. The project is titled “FIRST AND LAST NAME – NO DRAMA – 2026” and is a Film / Video project type.
  4. The applicant must upload the materials listed below to the “My Projects” section. (NOTE: Go to https://filmfreeway.com/projects and click “View” on the project to upload video files.)

AI USE WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED

No materials in the submission packet may be created by or based upon any output or material generated, processed, or produced in whole or in part with the use of Generative AI (as defined below). As used herein, “Generative AI” refers to a subset of artificial intelligence technology (e.g., ChatGPT, Llama, MidJourney, Dall-E) that generates content (such as text, software code, or audio, visual, or audiovisual works) by deriving statistical models and patterns from materials on which such technology has been trained. Universal may request supporting materials to verify compliance.

APPLICANT INFORMATION

Applicant information is collected by American Cinematheque through FilmFreeway and may be shared with NBCUniversal and Monkeypaw Productions for review in connection with NO DRAMA. Applicants should review the following privacy policies before submitting an application:

American Cinematheque Privacy Policy

Film Freeway Privacy Policy

NBC Universal Privacy Policy

Monkeypaw Privacy Policy

HELPFUL LINKS

Step-by-step application guide

Legal Release Agreement (to be completed and uploaded to your FilmFreeway application)

OPTIONAL Reference(s) form

QUESTIONS

For any questions not addressed in the FAQs (below), please reach out to: [email protected]

FAQs

FAQs

GENERAL QUESTIONS

  1. What is NO DRAMA Powered by Monkeypaw Productions, Universal Film and American Cinematheque? NO DRAMA is a global short-film development and production initiative for writer-directors with a passion for telling horror-centered stories. NO DRAMA builds upon the Studio’s and Monkeypaw’s commitment to elevating voices of early career filmmakers.
  2. Why is it called “NO DRAMA”? NO DRAMA encourages filmmakers to expand and innovate beyond the traditional drama model. Applicants can submit material that falls under the following genres: comedy, horror, fantasy, sci-fiction, suspense-thriller, and sub-genres including futurism, magical realism and more.
  3. Is NO DRAMA a paid program? No, but selected filmmakers will receive a financial grant of $50,000 USD to fund production of a short film/proof of concept. Filmmakers should consult with a tax advisor regarding the income tax consequences as a result of receiving the grant.
  4. What is the time commitment for selected filmmakers? NO DRAMA is a non-exclusive one-year talent experience.
  5. Are there extensions past the one-year time frame? No, however selected participants will be eligible to have completed projects considered for further development but it is not guaranteed.
  6. May filmmakers be employed or be enrolled in school while participating in NO DRAMA? Yes. However, efforts should be made by selected participants to take advantage of the curriculum and enrichment touchpoints. The experience is designed to enhance the filmmakers’ creative process, expand their network of champions, and increase their knowledge of the studio system.
  7. What are the submission requirements? Applicants are required to submit a completed NO DRAMA application package which includes the following:
    1. Original short film script
    2. Feature Film Treatment
    3. Lookbook
    4. Personal Essay and Pitch Video
    5. Creative Portfolio – minimum of two pieces, either written material or visual work or combination of both. See CREATIVE PORTFOLIO FAQ #2.
    6. Current résumé
    7. Hand-signed release form for submitted material
    8. OPTIONAL – Completed Reference Questionnaire from those who can speak to the applicant’s work.
  8. Can submission materials be hand-delivered or emailed? No. Only online submissions submitted through FilmFreeway will be accepted. Applicants unable to process their submissions online may contact FilmFreeway for technical support. ([email protected])
  9. Is reasonable accommodation for the submission process available? Yes, for accessibility accommodations please contact: [email protected].
  10. Is there a submission fee? No. However, there is a cost registering a script with the Writers Guild of America (WGA), if that is a preference. Visit www.wgaregistry.org for more information including registration rates. Registration may take more than 24 hours to process.
  11. Must any or all written submissions – the short film script and anything included in the Creative Portfolio – be registered with the WGA? No. It is up to the applicant should they wish to register their material. Visit www.wga.org for more information on registering material.
  12. When will NO DRAMA begin and end? Start dates vary but the one-year talent experience is targeted to launch in 2027.
  13. How many filmmakers will be selected? Up to three.
  14. What will the curriculum entail? The curriculum is focused on enhancing the filmmakers’ creative process, increasing their knowledge of the studio system, and expanding their network of contacts.
  15. If selected for NO DRAMA, is there a guarantee that my submitted material will be developed and/or produced? No. Concept development is not guaranteed.
  16. Where is NO DRAMA located? Selected filmmakers will produce the short films in the United States.
  17. If selected as a finalist or as a participant will Universal Film, American Cinematheque, or Monkeypaw reimburse traveling or relocation expenses? No.
  18. May filmmakers participate in NO DRAMA from outside the United States? International applicants are welcome to apply but they must be eligible to work in the United States and be able to participate in person.
  19. If I am an international filmmaker, should I submit the required written materials (short film script, feature film treatment, lookbook, letters of recommendation, etc.) in English? Yes
  20. If selected for NO DRAMA and I am an international filmmaker, could I film my project in my native language? Yes, however subtitles will be required.
  21. How do I know my submission has been received? An on-screen message will appear verifying confirmation. A confirmation email from Film Freeway will also be sent to the applicant.
  22. Will you personally contact me about the status of my submission? No. Due to the volume of submissions received, applicants will be notified if they move forward in the selection process. Please check social media pages (Instagram, Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Threads) for updates on the selection process.

ELIGIBILITY

  1. Who is eligible to apply? Applicants must be at least 21+ years of age on or before December 1, 2026 and applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.
  2. Will Universal Film, American Cinematheque or Monkeypaw sponsor work visas? No.
  3. Can filmmakers with previously produced credits apply? Yes.
  4. Will I be eligible if I previously signed an option agreement for a script that was not produced? Yes. However, the applicant cannot submit a script that is currently under option as part of the NO DRAMA application packet.
  5. Are filmmaking teams eligible? No.
  6. Do I need to have literary representation to apply? No.
  7. Are Monkeypaw Productions, Comcast-NBCUniversal and American Cinematheque employees eligible to apply? Yes. If accepted, the applicant will have to terminate their current employment with such companies.
  8. Do I have to be a member of the Directors Guild of America (DGA) to apply? No.
  9. Do I have to be a member of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) to apply? No.
  10. Is professional writing, directing or production experience required? No. However, experience, education and/or training in feature film production may be helpful.

MATERIAL

  1. Does the concept of the submitted short film script have to be about literal monsters? No. It is up to the applicant to interpret what the word “monster” means to them- is it an everyday stressor, an affliction, a person, a place, a thing or a feeling. How does it manifest itself and how does the lead character reconcile with it?
  2. Are there any genres my work should illustrate? The original short film script submission should explore the theme of monsters utilizing sub-genres including horror, fantasy, futurism, sci-fiction, suspense-thrillers, magical realism and more.
  3. Is material based on my life, someone’s life or a project in which I own the rights eligible? No. Although Universal Pictures and Focus Features have released films based on true stories, real people and/or pre-existing intellectual Property, for the purposes of applying to this initiative, submissions must be wholly original and not based on anyone’s life story rights or any pre-existing intellectual property, including, without limitations, Universal’s Monsters.
  4. Is material based on public domain accepted? Yes.
  5. Can I submit material that has already been produced or is currently under option? No.
  6. Can I submit animation material? No. This is solely a live-action initiative.
  7. Is co-written material eligible? No. The applicant must be the sole author and owner of all material submitted with their submission (except for incidental factual material in the public domain).
  8. Who owns the rights to the material submitted? Applicants will retain the rights to all original material (which, again must be original to the Applicant.). However, if selected for NO DRAMA, Universal Film shall have the exclusive option to purchase such material from the selected filmmaker after the initiative ends.
  9. What is the acceptable format for submitted material? All submission materials should be uploaded to the submission website, FilmFreeway, as follows:
    1. Attachment #1 – one PDF file labeled as Attachment 1 –First Name Last Name and includes the following three (3) items:
      1. Original short film script
      2. Hand-Signed Legal Agreement Release form
      3. Resume
    2. Attachment #2: one PDF file labeled as Attachment 2– First Name Last Name and includes the following two (2) items:
      1. Feature Film Treatment
      2. Lookbook
    3. Attachment #3: Personal Statement and Pitch Video – one video file with a link and password, if necessary, and labeled as Attachment 3—First Name Last Name
    4. Attachment #4: Creative Portfolio – a folder that includes a minimum of two completed bodies of work either written or visual or a combination of both. Provide a link and password, if necessary, and labeled as Attachment 4– First Name Last Name
  10. Who reviews submissions? A combination of executives from Monkeypaw Productions, Universal Film, American Cinematheque, and professional evaluators.
  11. Will I receive feedback on my submission? No. Due to the high volume of submissions, feedback will not be provided.

ORIGINAL SHORT FILM SCRIPT

  1. Should my original short film script have a theme or be a specific genre? The original short film script submission should explore the theme of “monsters” utilizing sub-genres including horror, fantasy, futurism, sci-fiction, suspense-thrillers, magical realism and more.
  2. What is the appropriate page-length for a short script? Apart from the cover page, scripts exceeding 10 pages will be disqualified.
  3. Is the title page included in the page count? No.
  4. What is the format for short film scripts? Short film scripts must be presented in the standard, industry-accepted format. Formatting guidelines can be found in various publications and online resources. Submitted short scripts must:
    1. Follow a three-act structure;
    2. Be no more than 10 pages in length; and
    3. Have a clear beginning, middle and end.

      Any scripts exceeding 10 pages will be disqualified. The applicant must be the sole writer and owner of all original material submitted. Short scripts written by multiple writers will not be accepted.
  5. Should the writer’s name be on the script title page? No. To preserve anonymity, only the title and the WGA registration number (if the script is registered) should be on the title page.
  6. How do I submit the original short film script? The original short film script should be uploaded as a PDF as part of Attachment #1 to FilmFreeway, the submission website. Please see MATERIAL FAQ #9 for additional details.
  7. Can Monkeypaw, Universal Film or American Cinematheque provide me with sample scripts to review? No. For legal reasons, we are unable to accommodate this request.
  8. Are TV pilot scripts acceptable submissions for NO DRAMA? TV pilot scripts will not be accepted as a short film script. However, applicants can submit TV pilot scripts as part of the Creative Portfolio.
  9. May I submit more than one original short film project to apply to NO DRAMA? No. Only ONE original short film project per Applicant will be accepted for submission.

FEATURE FILM TREATMENT & LOOKBOOK

  1. Does the Feature Film Treatment have to be an expansion of the short film script? Yes, the Feature Film Treatment should be a proposed feature film expansion of the submitted short film script.
  2. What needs to be included in the Feature Film Treatment? The Feature Film Treatment should describe the applicant’s vision for expanding the submitted short film script into a full-length feature film. The treatment must include the following:
    1. Title
    2. A logline that clearly identifies the main character, their goal, the challenge they face, and what is at stake
    3. Brief descriptions of the key characters
    4. A three-act story outline
    5. No more than five (5) pages, not including the title page
    6. 1.5 line spacing
    7. 1-inch margins on all sides
    8. Font size of at least 11.5
  3. What needs to be included in the Lookbook? The Lookbook should outline the overall composition, style, and direction of the feature film. The document must be a minimum of 8 pages but no more than 15. This document should include:
    1. Genre, tone, mood, key takeaways, and provide visual references
    2. Setting/time period with visual references
    3. Art direction with visual references
    4. Short character descriptions with visual references or casting inspiration
    5. Comparable projects
    6. Any other pertinent details you’d like to share
  4. How many pages should the Feature Film Treatment be? The Feature Film Treatment should be no more than five (5) pages, not including the title page.
  5. How many pages should the Lookbook be? The Lookbook should be a minimum of eight (8) pages but no more than fifteen (15).
  6. How are the Feature Film Treatment and Lookbook submitted? The Feature Film Treatment and Lookbook should be uploaded as a PDF as part of Attachment #2 to FilmFreeway, the submission website. Please see MATERIAL FAQ #9 for additional details.

PERSONAL STATEMENT & PITCH VIDEO

  1. What is the purpose and what do evaluators look for in the personal statement? It provides insight into the filmmaker’s specific life journey, and experience that has informed or inspired the creation of submitted materials. The personal statement should convey the filmmaker’s unique point-of-view, tone and sensibility i.e.: personal inspiration, desire to tell genre stories, and overall motivation to be a participant in NO DRAMA. Applicants may split their personal statement and pitch to be three (3) minutes each. Any video totaling more than six (6) minutes will be disqualified.
  2. What information should be included in the pitch? The pitch should convey the creative vision for the project, theme, key takeaways, and POV. Applicants may split their personal statement and pitch to be three (3) minutes each. Any video totaling more than six (6) minutes will be disqualified.
  3. Is there a structure I should follow for the personal statement and pitch video? Applicants should start with their personal statement as an introduction followed by their pitch. Applicants may split their personal statement and pitch to three (3) minutes each. Any video totaling more than six (6) minutes will be disqualified.
  4. What is the acceptable length for the personal statement and pitch video? No more than 6 minutes total.
  5. How should the personal statement and pitch video be submitted? The video should be submitted via FilmFreeway, the submission website, as one video file. Please provide a link and password if necessary. (Please submit this as Attachment #3.)

CREATIVE PORTFOLIO

  1. Is the Creative Portfolio optional? No.
  2. What type of items can be submitted as part of the Creative Portfolio? The Creative Portfolio is a file that should include samples of two or more previous works solely written or directed by the applicant, that best feature the applicant’s creative abilities – this could include written samples such as completed feature-length scripts, television pilots, short stories; or visual samples such as completed feature-length films, previous short films, proof of concepts, music videos, tv episodes, webseries, etc. The samples could be in any genre.
  3. How should the Creative Portfolio be submitted? The Creative Portfolio video should be submitted as part of Attachment #4 on FilmFreeway, the submission website. Please provide a link and password if necessary.

RÉSUMÉ

  1. If the applicant has not worked as a professional filmmaker, do they still need to submit a résumé? Yes. All applicants must submit a chronological employment résumé, which may include entertainment and non-entertainment positions.
  2. What is the purpose for providing a résumé? The résumé provides insight into the filmmaker’s professional and life experiences.
  3. How long should the résumé be? The résumé should be no longer than two pages.
  4. Should there be a cover letter with the résumé? No.
  5. Could a list of completed scripts or films be included in the résumé? No.
  6. Should a list of references be included in the résumé? No.
  7. Should an objective line be included in the résumé? No.
  8. How is the résumé submitted? The resume should be uploaded as a PDF as part of Attachment #1 to FilmFreeway, the submission website. Please see MATERIAL FAQ #9 for additional details.

RELEASE FORM

  1. Is a Legal Release Agreement form for the original short film script required? Yes.
  2. Where can the Legal Release Agreement form be found? The Legal Release Agreement is here and listed in the FilmFreeway submission and can be viewed once the submission process has been started. (Please attach as part of Attachment #1) See MATERIAL FAQ #9 for additional details.
  3. Are digital signatures acceptable? No. The release form must be printed out and hand-signed. Applicants who fail to upload a completed and hand-signed agreement will be disqualified.
  4. Why am I having trouble submitting my Legal Release Agreement? File size can impact the uploading process. Please check that the PDF file is no larger than 2MB, otherwise the file may need to be compressed.

OPTIONAL REFERENCE QUESTIONNAIRE

  1. Could applicants include a letter(s) of recommendation with their submission packet? No. Letters of recommendation are not required. However, industry professionals familiar with the applicant’s work can fill out a brief reference questionnaire found here. The evaluations team will accept no more than two (2) completed references per applicant.
  2. How should the completed reference questionnaires be submitted? Once the industry professional completes the questionnaire, they can click “submit” and responses will be sent to the evaluations team.
  3. How is “industry professional” defined? Industry professionals are persons who currently or previously worked in entertainment media (e.g., film, television, digital and streaming services, etc.). Positions within both film and television industries include studio, production company, and network executives, writers/producers, feature film and episodic directors, and educators (e.g., professors or writing instructors) who have entertainment industry experience and/or produced credits.
  4. Can literary and directing representatives complete the reference questionnaire? No.
  5. Can my references submit their responses to the questionnaire at anytime? No. The reference questionnaire should be submitted by the deadline date.