"MAYA" Feature Screenplay
Haunted by recurring nightmares after her father’s death, Maya Johnson embarks on a journey to the Philippines with her daughter, Lilibeth, to fulfill her father’s last wish of burying his ashes beside her mother’s grave. Maya, who left her birthplace country as a teenager, is filled with mixed emotions about returning.
Maya’s worst fears materialize when Lilibeth’s life is suddenly endangered by a malevolent creature. Filled with terror, Maya must act swiftly to save her beloved child, leading them back to the remote and mystical village where her journey began. There, she discovers long-hidden truths about her mother’s bloodline, which her father had kept secret from her including the significance of the amulet necklace she has worn throughout her life.
A harrowing battle ensues between Maya, the courageous mother, and the formidable leader of the creature. Despite her valiant efforts, Maya falls lifeless to the ground. In a desperate attempt to save her mother, Lilibeth performs an ancient ritual never before attempted. Miraculously, the bond between mother and daughter is restored, and they return to their life in Chicago.
However, a new nightmare begins for Lilibeth. Strange incidents occur, causing Maya to be overcome with horror and speechlessness. The discovery of another girl in the hospital who bears an eerie resemblance to Lilibeth puzzles Maya even further. Filled with trepidation, Maya rushes to the bathroom and gazes into the mirror, only to witness her transformation into a terrifying creature. The nightmare is in her blood.
“MAYA” is a chilling horror fantasy that delves into the depths of family secrets, the power of motherly love, and the darkness that lies within. It takes the audience on a suspenseful journey across continents, blurring the lines between dreams and reality, and exploring the haunting consequences of hidden bloodlines and ancient rituals.
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Maria Brenda AcopiadoWriter
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Project Type:Screenplay
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Genres:horror, fantasy, adventure, thriller
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Number of Pages:102
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Country of Origin:United States
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Language:English
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First-time Screenwriter:No
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Student Project:No
Maria is an award-winning Director, Screenwriter, Producer, and Actress who founded Zatori Films, an independent film production company in Chicago. Her team consists of a diverse group of independent filmmakers and the majority are women of color. Zatori Films is in the process of certifying the company as a Minority-owned business and a Women Minority-owned business.
Born and raised in the Philippines, she faced struggles as an immigrant in the US. Overcoming abuse, criticism, and racial hate, she has become a brave and strong woman. Her projects have garnered recognition and won numerous awards at film festivals around the world.
Maria is also involved in community service, having served as the President of the Chicago Eagles Wings Lions Club and received a community service certificate from the Asian American Coalition of Chicago. She is the founder of the No Small Potatoes Foundation, a non-profit organization advocating for mental health awareness in underserved communities. She was highlighted as one of the emerging female filmmakers in Chicago in 2020 and spoke at the 2019 Period Day Rally.
Maria wears many hats in her career, constantly learning and pushing herself to make her dreams a reality. Her favorite quote is, "Success is earned, not given"."
Persistence & patience is the key to success. Believing in yourself and your work will gain you respect.