Full Breakdown
Ray Mendoza to Direct Western Drama *Blood On the Promontory*
5/6/2026, 1:33:52 AM
Premise and Production Overview
*Blood On the Promontory* is a Western drama centered on five convicts shackled together as they attempt to flee the mountains after a violent train robbery. The screenplay is written by Evan Cooper. Production is being handled by Nina Yang Bongiovi, Paul Hadad, Glenn Kleczkowski, and Mark Gillard, with Danny Peykoff serving as executive producer. The film is being produced under Big Newport Studios, and sales are being managed by WME Independent.
- Core plot: Five shackled convicts, mountain escape, train robbery
- Screenwriter: Evan Cooper
- Producers: Nina Yang Bongiovi, Paul Hadad, Glenn Kleczkowski, Mark Gillard
- Executive producer: Danny Peykoff
- Production company: Big Newport Studios
- Sales agent: WME Independent
Mendoza’s Military Background and Filmmaking Path
Ray Mendoza is a former United States Navy SEAL who served multiple deployments, including combat operations in Iraq. His military experience informs both his visual style and his commitment to stories grounded in adversity and honor. After leaving service, Mendoza transitioned to filmmaking, co-writing and co-directing the action drama *Warfare* with Alex Garland for A24. *Warfare* received critical acclaim and was explicitly inspired by Mendoza’s combat experiences. Mendoza has also contributed to the episodic series *The Terminal List: Dark Wolf* for Prime Video.
Creative Team and Production Partners
The project brings together a blend of seasoned producers and a writer with a background in genre storytelling. Nina Yang Bongiovi, known for her work on high-profile films, joins Paul Hadad, Glenn Kleczkowski, and Mark Gillard to oversee production logistics. Danny Peykoff, acting as executive producer, provides additional oversight through his company, Big Newport Studios. Evan Cooper supplies the script, shaping the film’s narrative focus on survival and moral conflict.
Distribution, Sales, and Representation
WME Independent has been appointed to handle worldwide sales, positioning the film for potential festival exposure and market acquisition. Ray Mendoza is represented by both Underground and WME, while Evan Cooper’s representation includes Range Media Partners and WME. These affiliations suggest coordinated efforts to secure distribution channels and promotional support.
Upcoming Milestones
The next steps involve finalizing financing, commencing pre-production, and scheduling principal photography. Sales negotiations with distributors are expected to progress as the project moves toward a production start date.
