Created in collaboration with the NoirCon literary event, the Desert Noir initiative is designed to help accelerate the development of noir fiction and nonfiction with strong potential for film adaptation set in the Mojave Desert.

Desert Noir will take place on Thursday, November 12, at the historic 29 Palms Inn in Twentynine Palms.

Eight to ten books will be selected for their cinematic strength, international market appeal, and clear path toward practical, cost-efficient production—projects that can realistically be filmed in the desert and benefit from California’s rural production tax incentives.

Each property will be presented in an industry-standard project profile, outlining a possible adaptation approach, production and distribution considerations, a preliminary budget range, and a screenwriter identified to begin the adaptation process.

During the day, participating producers and filmmakers will meet face-to-face with the selected authors to explore potential next steps toward development and production.

The program will conclude with Hollywood Meets the Desert, a cocktail reception and presentation bringing together participating executives, authors, local production talent, and regional film-office representatives from San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, and designed to highlight the Mojave Desert as a shooting destination.

A sweepstakes will designate five producers or filmmakers among registered participants to receive a complimentary overnight stay at one of Twentynine Palms’ boutique hotels.

Producers and filmmakers may contact pz@ideasforfilms.us for additional information.