Janelle Monáe, the celebrated non-binary and pansexual singer-songwriter and rapper, is set to delve into the world of psychological horror with an exciting new film project. Known for their electrifying performances and boundary-pushing music, Monáe is no stranger to the big screen, having showcased their acting talents in critically acclaimed films such as "Knives Out: Glass Onion," "Antebellum," "Dirty Computer," and the Oscar-winning "Moonlight." Now, they are channeling their vibrant creativity into crafting a series of horror thrillers through Wondaland Pictures, their own TV and film company.
In a recent conversation with Collider, Monáe revealed ambitious plans to develop several psychological thriller horror films, one of which draws inspiration from the myth of Medusa. This venture marks an exciting new chapter in Monáe’s illustrious career, allowing them to merge their passion for storytelling with their love for the horror genre.
New Collaborations with Akela Cooper
One of the most anticipated projects Monáe is developing involves a collaboration with acclaimed writer Akela Cooper, known for her work on "M3GAN." Together, they are crafting an original film for Universal Pictures. Monáe, who uses she/her and they/them pronouns, expressed immense excitement about the synergy and creativity that this partnership promises to bring.
Monáe's fascination with horror began at a young age. They recalled being captivated by classic films such as "A Nightmare on Elm Street" and "IT," which have had a lasting impact on their artistic vision. "We’re developing ‘Don’t Look’ around a short story that Colin Bannon penned. That’s what I’m really excited about, new ideas," Monáe shared, underscoring their commitment to originality and innovation in the genre.
The Influence of Queer Art in Horror
For Monáe, the intersection of their identity as a queer, pansexual individual and their artistic pursuits is a source of inspiration and creativity. "The way that I write, and the way that I take in art, and I create art is queer," they explained. By embracing queer perspectives and highlighting characters who might otherwise remain in the shadows, Monáe aims to inject fresh, diverse narratives into the horror genre. "Allowing queer people who make queer art and highlight characters you wouldn’t necessarily see, letting them have that shine and have that moment, and supporting them," they emphasized.
This ethos of inclusivity and representation extends to Monáe's personal life, where they find expression and community through the celebration of Halloween. "I think that Halloween gives me context, and it gives me community," Monáe remarked, highlighting how the season encourages people to step outside their comfort zones and embrace new identities. "It gives us all permission to sort of play, and that’s what I love about this season. It’s literally the season of creativity for me and so many others."
Upcoming Projects
Beyond their foray into horror filmmaking, Monáe has a multitude of exciting projects on the horizon. They will star in "Is God Is," a gripping thriller by Aleshea Harris that follows two sisters on a quest for justice. The plot thickens as they embark on a mission to confront their past and the man responsible for their suffering.
Additionally, Monáe will portray the iconic freedom fighter Josephine Baker in the forthcoming TV series "De La Resistance." This role underscores Monáe’s commitment to portraying powerful, transformative characters who challenge societal norms and inspire change.
Janelle Monáe continues to break boundaries and redefine artistic expression across multiple platforms. Their ventures into horror, infused with queer sensibilities and a love for genre-bending narratives, are poised to captivate audiences and contribute to a more inclusive cinematic landscape. As Monáe boldly steps into this new realm, fans eagerly await the chilling stories and innovative storytelling that only they can deliver.
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