Universal Pictures to Adapt Viral Horror Short "Portrait of God"

Universal Pictures has acquired the rights to adapt "Portrait of God," a viral horror short film created by emerging filmmaker Dylan Clark. The feature film will be co-written by Clark and Joe Russo, known for "The Inheritance." This project marks the first collaboration between renowned horror filmmakers Sam Raimi and Jordan Peele, who will produce the film through their respective production companies, Ghost House Pictures and Monkeypaw Productions.

Deadline HollywoodThe WrapRaimi, Peele To Produce “Portrait of God”

The original short film, which has garnered over 8.6 million views on YouTube since its release in August 2022, follows a religious young woman named Mia. The narrative revolves around her exploration of the question, “What does God look like?” The film opens with a quote from the Old Testament, “No man shall see Me and live,” and features a painting titled "Portrait of God." While some viewers perceive the painting as entirely black, others claim to see a figure within it, described consistently across different viewers. The short presents a darker interpretation of divinity, contrasting the traditional view of God as a benevolent entity.

Raimi, Peele To Produce “Portrait of God”

Dylan Clark, who has gained popularity in the YouTube horror space, will direct and co-write the feature adaptation. He is represented by 3 Arts Entertainment, UTA, and Ginsburg Daniels Kallis. Sam Raimi and Jordan Peele, both influential figures in the horror genre, will produce alongside Win Rosenfeld and Romel Adam. Joe Russo, who co-wrote the screenplay, is represented by Untitled Entertainment, Fictional Entity, and Yorn Levine. The project will also see Chris Rosati as executive producer and Kate Oh overseeing production for Monkeypaw.

The WrapDeadline HollywoodRaimi, Peele To Produce “Portrait of God”

The collaboration between Raimi and Peele has generated excitement within the film community, as both filmmakers have distinct styles that could enhance the adaptation of Clark's original concept. The details surrounding the plot of the feature film remain undisclosed, maintaining an air of mystery that aligns with the horror genre's themes.

Raimi, Peele To Produce “Portrait of God”

While the project has received positive attention, some critics may question the necessity of adapting a short film into a feature-length format, particularly given the short's minimalist approach. Concerns about whether the expanded narrative can maintain the same impact as the original may arise among audiences familiar with Clark's work.

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As the project develops, further details regarding casting and production timelines are expected to be announced. The collaboration between Raimi and Peele is anticipated to attract significant interest, potentially leading to a unique interpretation of horror that blends their individual styles.

Raimi, Peele To Produce “Portrait of God”

• “The ‘God’ these people see certainly doesn’t appear to be a benevolent entity.” — Source: Dark Horizons

Raimi, Peele To Produce “Portrait of God”

• “6 million views on YouTube since premiering in August 2022.” — Source: Deadline

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