Jordan Peele and Sam Raimi are collaborating as producers on a feature adaptation of Dylan Clark’s viral horror short, “Portrait of God,” set to be produced by Universal Pictures. Centering on the Jordan Peele Portrait of God concept, the project brings together major talent in horror filmmaking for the first time, with Clark directing and co-writing the screenplay.
Collaboration Brings together Horror Genre Leaders
The film is being adapted from Clark’s YouTube short, which has amassed over 8.6 million views since its premiere in August 2022. Dylan Clark has built a reputation in the YouTube horror community but is distinct from the Emmy-nominated producer involved with “The Batman” and “The Penguin.” The screenplay for the upcoming feature is being co-written with Joe Russo, previously known for “The Inheritance.” This marks a first-time partnership between Jordan Peele and Sam Raimi as producers.
Plot Details and Themes Remain Undisclosed
Specific story information about the feature film remains confidential at this stage. The original short depicts a religious young woman investigating a mysterious artwork— the titular “Portrait of God.” Notably, the painting appears entirely black to some, while others discern a figure concealed in the darkness, inviting different interpretations among viewers. This premise sets the stage for a psychological and supernatural narrative, though further details about changes or expansions in the adaptation are not yet public.
Production and Involvement from Key Industry Players
Jordan Peele and Win Rosenfeld are set to produce via Monkeypaw Productions, under their first-look agreement with Universal Pictures. Chris Rosati, who introduced the project to Monkeypaw, will serve as executive producer, with Kate Oh overseeing for Monkeypaw. Sam Raimi and Romel Adam will handle production through Ghost House Pictures, while Jose Cañas will provide oversight for their company.
Additional production roles include Joe Russo as a producer and Sam Evenson as co-producer. Universal’s Executive Vice President of Production Development, Sara Scott, will supervise the project for the studio. Representation for the creatives involves a wide range of industry agencies and legal teams, such as 3 Arts Entertainment, UTA, Ginsburg Daniels Kallis for Clark, and Untitled Entertainment, Fictional Entity, and Yorn Levine for Russo. Raimi and Ghost House Pictures are represented by CAA and law firm specialists including Stewart Brookman and Mahdi Salehi, among others.
Implications and Anticipated Reception
The teaming of high-profile filmmakers like Jordan Peele and Sam Raimi for “Portrait of God” is notable within the horror genre, likely to draw significant attention from audiences and industry professionals alike. Universal Pictures continues to invest in unique and original horror properties, strengthening partnerships with companies like Monkeypaw and Ghost House. As the feature develops under the guidance of its accomplished production team, further announcements regarding casting and release timelines are anticipated. The adaptation’s reception will be closely watched, given the popularity of the original short and the pedigree of those involved.
