Imagine Impact has launched its call for applications as part of a new deal with Netflix to develop original films from new screenwriters around the world.
Launched in 2018, Impact is inspired by accelerators from tech startups like Y Combinator and aims to open up new access to the Hollywood system and find emerging talent. Imagine partners Ron Howard and Brian Grazer recently made Hillbilly elegy and tick, tick… BOOM! for Netflix and have long-standing ties to the streaming service’s chief film officer Scott Stuber. They founded Impact with Tyler Mitchell.
Through the open submission process, Impact will identify and develop ideas for feature films in four specific genres over the next year which they will then bring to Netflix. The first genre announced on Wednesday is being described as “full-scale action-adventure films for all audiences.”
Applicants are invited to submit a “well thought out idea” and writing sample, until July 6.
To date, the Impact program has resulted in 62 projects developed, 22 of which have been sold or set up with major studios, networks and streaming services. Netflix won a bidding war for Godwin Jabangwe last year Tounga, an original family adventure musical inspired by the mythology of Zimbabwe’s Shona culture.
“Netflix is the most innovative content creation and distribution company of the past decade, leading the way in streaming since 2007 and changing the game of original content with House of Cards in 2013. As Impact continues to grow ” evolving in the way global talents are discovered, projects are developed and how the creative industry connects, this partnership demonstrates the commitment of the two companies to improve the development system in order to generate more original intellectual property and quality to meet growing demand, ”Grazer, Howard and Mitchell said in a press release.
“Brian and Ron run one of the most creative and forward-thinking production companies in the business,” said Tendo Nagenda, vice president of Netflix Films. “We were delighted to extend our partnership to Imagine Impact on this new venture. We look forward to being a part of this new way that stories and talents are discovered and mentored. “
Since its inception, Imagine Impact has generated attachments for Netflix, Sony, Amblin, Legendary, Village Roadshow, and Sony. The creators have been signed by CAA, WME, UTA, Verve, Anonymous Content, Management 360, 3Arts and other agencies and management companies. The Impact platform is used by executives of more than 300 companies, including A24, ABC, Disney, HBO, Netflix, and Universal.