Neon Launches Open-Source SCP Foundation Anthology to Counter A24

Key points

• Neon is developing an anthology horror film based on the SCP Foundation, targeting a 2027 theatrical release.
• The project is designed as an 'open-source horror project' that complies with the CC BY-SA 3.0 license, allowing for derivative works and free sharing.
• This move directly counters A24's recently announced SCP Foundation film, which faced backlash from the SCP Wiki for ignoring licensing requirements.
• Neon has engaged with the SCP Wiki team, which expressed satisfaction with Neon's commitment to the license, though the Wiki cannot endorse any project as 'official.'
• No specific talent or producers have been announced yet, but Neon plans to focus on emerging filmmakers.

Background

The SCP Foundation is a collaborative, community-driven speculative fiction website created in 2008, featuring thousands of writers and a global fanbase. Its content is protected under a Creative Commons license. A24's recent announcement of an SCP Foundation film, in partnership with Spooky Pictures and Image Nation Studios, sparked controversy when the SCP Wiki Licensing Team stated that A24 had not contacted them and that exclusive commercial rights are impossible under the license. This led to a broader debate about the adaptation of internet-born IP in Hollywood, following the success of A24's 'Backrooms' film.

How outlets are covering it

IndieWire frames Neon's announcement as a direct challenge to A24, highlighting the contrast between Neon's commitment to the Creative Commons license and A24's apparent disregard for it. Deadline notes that Neon's development was in motion before A24's announcement but positions it as a counter-move, emphasizing the 'open-source' nature of the project. Variety focuses on the anthology format and the focus on emerging filmmakers, while also referencing the broader trend of internet IP adaptations in Hollywood. The Hollywood Reporter highlights Neon's track record in horror and awards-winning films, framing the SCP project as part of a broader strategy to double down on genre films. All outlets agree on the core facts but differ in emphasis, with IndieWire and Deadline focusing on the licensing conflict, while Variety and THR focus on the production details and industry context.

Why it matters

This story highlights the growing tension between traditional Hollywood studios and community-driven, open-source IP. It tests the boundaries of Creative Commons licensing in commercial filmmaking and could set a precedent for how internet-born properties are adapted in the future. The outcome of Neon's project will also influence how other studios approach similar IP in the future.

What to watch

Neon will likely announce talent and producers for the SCP Foundation anthology in the coming months. The film is set for a 2027 theatrical release. A24's SCP Foundation film is also set for 2027, and its development will be closely watched to see if it addresses the licensing concerns raised by the SCP Wiki.