🟥 Red Ink Adaptation House 1$ Program— FAQ

What is Red Ink Adaptation House?

Red Ink Adaptation House is a once‑a‑year, 30‑day window where indie filmmakers can license a published Mord McGhee short story for $1 to create a non‑commercial short film.

Who can apply?

Anyone. Students, indie filmmakers, first‑timers, micro‑budget creators — the House is built for people who normally don’t get access to licensed material.

How much does the license cost?

The license costs $1, a symbolic fee to keep the program accessible while maintaining a formal legal agreement.

What can I adapt?

You may choose one published short story by Mord McGhee from the official Red Ink catalog.

What rights do I get?

You receive a non‑exclusive, non‑commercial license to adapt the story into a short film, submit it to festivals, and showcase it in your portfolio.

Can I monetize the film?

No. The license is strictly non‑commercial.

You may not sell, monetize, or distribute the film for profit in any form.

Can I upload the film to YouTube or Vimeo?

Yes — as long as the upload is not monetized and does not run ads.

Can I submit the film to festivals?

Yes. Festival submissions are fully allowed and encouraged.

Can I crowdfund the project?

Yes — but only to cover production costs.

No profit, no investor shares, no revenue promises.

How long do I have to make the film?

You have one year from the date the agreement is signed.

What happens after the one‑year window?

You may continue to screen the film at festivals or in your portfolio, but you may not create new versions or continue production without a renewed license.

Do I own the film I create?

Yes — you own the film.

Mord McGhee retains ownership of the story.

What credit is required?

Your film must include the following credit:

“Based on the short story by Mord McGhee. Licensed through Red Ink Adaptation House.”

Can I adapt more than one story?

Determined on a case-by-case basis at Red Ink Adaptation's discretion — but each story requires its own $1 license and signed agreement.

Can I change the story?

You may interpret and adapt creatively, but you may not distort the core premise or misrepresent the author’s work.

Can I use AI tools in my film?

Yes — as long as the final film remains non‑commercial and does not violate any third‑party rights.

What happens if I break the rules?

The license automatically terminates, and you must remove the film from public access.

Where can I read the full contract?

You can download the complete agreement on the Agreement page of this site.

How do I apply?

Click Apply Now, choose your story, and submit the form during the open window:

June 14 → July 14, 2026.