What makes a meet-cute, cute? How and what makes sparks fly? From the producers who brought you “Girls Trip,” “The Best Man,” and “Night School,” Blackmaled Productions presents LOVE & LAUGHS, powered by Universal Film and Tribeca, which challenges filmmakers to produce a short film that explores the tender and hilarious moments of human connection in the twenty-first century.

LOVE & LAUGHS is a short-film development and production initiative for writer-directors with a passion for telling comedic and romantic stories that explore how people connect, clash, or fall for each other. LOVE & LAUGHS builds upon Universal Film's and Blackmaled’s commitment to identifying and growing breakout filmmakers.

LOVE & LAUGHS offers resources and support at every step of the filmmakers’ creative journey, with special focus on their individual needs, strengths, and areas for future growth. Up to three  filmmakers will be selected to each receive a $50,000 grant from Tribeca to produce their submitted short scripts. During the one-year non-exclusive talent experience, selected participants will engage in roundtables and workshops to enrich their creative process in producing a short film/proof of concept. Filmmakers will work closely with Blackmaled and Tribeca, receiving creative guidance and production support. Completed films will be considered by Universal Film and Blackmaled Productions for further development opportunities.

We encourage those applying to review the Eligibility and FAQ’s carefully, as they are designed to guide applicants towards a strong submission.

For accessibility accommodations, please contact: tribecastudios@tribecafilm.com.

Interested filmmakers who believe they’re the perfect match are invited to apply now through May 20, 2026.