MTV is getting back into the TV movie business, unveiling plans to produce one new feature every quarter starting next year.
The network has quietly wrapped production on the first film on its slate: A horror pic called "My Super Psycho Sweet 16." Jacob Gentry ("The Signal") directed the project, which revolves around a spoiled teen who gets more than she bargained for from her 16th birthday party.
The title is a play on MTV’s popular (and scorned) "My Super Sweet 16" reality franchise. Jed Elinoff and Scott Thomas wrote the script.
"Sweet 16" will get a limited theatrical run this fall and then air on MTV around Halloween.
MTV Programming president Tony DiSanto said he wants to move the channel beyond its current reality-heavy lineup. The network has announced plans for several scripted series in recent weeks, including an adaptation of the UK smash "Skins.
"Our mission is to redefine the creative canvas of MTV with a diversity
of content in a variety of formats," DiSanto said. "Storytelling is in our DNA, and feature films for television are the next natural step of progression for us."
MTV has also greenlit "Turn the Beat Around," a dance-themed movie set in Los Angeles. The movie will feature a soundtrack of disco classics remade by current acts, including Cobra Starship and Sing it Loud.
Tony Krantz and Protocol Entertainment Steve Levitan are executive producing the movie, with Bradley Walsh directing.
Also in development at MTV: A scripted twist on the network’s reality franchise "Made." The movie will be a comedy about a popular cheerleader who helps a band nerd get on the squad. Bob Kusbit and Francis Lyons are executive producers.
