Jordan Peele and Issa Rae are set to produce the Universal supernatural film Sinkhole, it was announced this week.
The psychological horror will be an adaptation of the short story of the same name by Leyna Krow, which chronicles a young family who move into their dream home. What sets this home apart from all others, however, is the sinkhole in its garden, which absorbs everything broken and destroyed and restores them.
The plot focuses on what would happen if, rather than an object, a person fell into that sinkhole. The film “is a genre piece that engages on the question of female perfection and identity” according to the announcement. Krow’s story is available to read online but, at only a seven-minute read, it will be interesting to see how this is fleshed out into a full-length film.
No writers or actors have been announced for Sinkhole yet, although there is speculation that Rae herself may be the leading actress. Universal’s commitment to obtaining the rights for the film, however, suggests that it will be worth the wait – Deadline recently reported that the studio beat over 10 bidders and multiple talent and filmmaker packages for screen rights to Sinkhole in a seven-figure deal.
Peele is best known for his Oscar-winning directorial debut Get Out and the follow-up Us, but he has extensive writing, producing and directing experience across horror and comedy for both film and television. His current production, however, has had its release delayed due to coronavirus complications – originally set for release in June, Candyman, which he wrote and produced, has since been postponed to October.
Actress, writer, and producer Rae has received wide acclaim for the HBO television series Insecure, which she created, co-wrote and starred in, including eight Emmy nominations. Her recent film ventures include starring in the comedy Little, drama The Photograph and rom-com The Lovebirds.
Words by Grace Dean
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