"Gen Trauma" Triumphs in Calavera Media's Horror Screenplay Competition
Watsonville, CA — In a groundbreaking announcement, Calavera Media has declared "Gen Trauma" as the victor of its 2024 Horror Screenplay Competition. Crafted by the talented trio Nili Segal, Jesseca Ynez Simmons, and Jacquelyn Simmons, the story stands out for its depth, emotion, and the unique way it tackles the challenges its characters face, all wrapped up in a gripping horror narrative.
The story delves into the tumultuous life of Ruth, a 28-year-old mother navigating the complexities of raising conjoined twins amidst her own personal and supernatural crises. The screenplay, set primarily in a cramped apartment, weaves a compelling tale of Ruth's psychological descent, pitting her against both her unsupportive ex-partner Blake and eerie, unexplained phenomena.
The narrative of "Gen Trauma" evokes the intricate psychological layers and nuanced character development found in Ari Aster's "Hereditary," blended with the strong female perspective reminiscent of Issa Lopez’s "Tigers Are Not Afraid." However, the script's essence and its haunting atmosphere are its own, offering a unique and compelling take on horror.
Beyond the victory for "Gen Trauma," Calavera Media's competition has uniquely recognized the talents of the other finalists. Marissa Melendrez’s "Mi Ultima Vida" will gain from the mentorship of Claudia Melendez, a Salinas author renowned for "A Fighting Chance." Meanwhile, Genevive Rico's "Bed Time" is set for production under the guidance of two local producers, demonstrating the competition's commitment to fostering and realizing creative potential.
In a notable twist, "Gen Trauma" will soon transition into pre-production, with its writers also taking on the directorial role, underscoring Calavera Media’s innovative approach to film production. This move aims to disrupt traditional filmmaking practices and infuse the project with the writers' original vision.
A Celebration of Hometown Talent
Significantly, the creative minds behind "Gen Trauma" and Gabriel Medina, the Executive Producer at Calavera Media, all share a common alma mater: Watsonville High School’s Video Academy. This shared educational background underlines a story of local success, showcasing the far-reaching impact of early creative education.
About the Winning Team
Jacquelyn Simmons: Hailing from the educational and creative realm of Biology and Human Anatomy, Jacquelyn brings a unique scientific perspective to the team, coupled with her passion for music and filmmaking.
Nili Rain Segal: A versatile talent from Watsonville, Nili has a rich background in theater and film, with a track record of acclaimed scripts and performances, including her standout screenplay "Joshua's Exceptional Pheromones."
Jesseca Ynez Simmons: With her roots in the documentary sphere, Jesseca has showcased her narrative flair in prestigious festivals and contributed to significant film projects, blending experimental storytelling with her directorial and cinematographic expertise.
As "Gen Trauma" moves toward production, it represents a beacon of innovation in horror cinema, marrying local talent with the broader ambitions of the film industry. This project is not just a win for the screenplay’s creators but a celebration of the creative spirit that thrives in communities like Watsonville, heralding a new era of storytelling that honors its roots while boldly charting new territories.
