Coming this month to San Diego Comic-Con is “I Know What You Need,” Julia Marchese’s award-winning short film adaptation of Stephen King’s story from his “Night Shift.”  

Made through Stephen King’s “Dollar Baby” program, the film is styled as a 1970s after-school special and uniquely, was actually shot at the University of Maine, in the exact locations mentioned in the story. The film has played in festivals worldwide, earning more than 15 awards to date. 

“Dollar Baby” was an arrangement in which iconic author Stephen King would grant permission to students and aspiring filmmakers theater producers to adapt one of his short stories for just $1.King retains the rights to his work, but as he began to experience commercial success, he decided to use his platform to help the next generation of creatives. When the program’s overseer retired, the program came to an end,making Marchese one of the final recipients of this generosity.  

Synopsis: It’s 1976, and popular college co-ed Elizabeth (Caroline Renee) meets an unusual boy, Edward (William Champion), who knows what she needs. But who is Edward really, and what secrets is he hiding? It’s a love story, but a Stephen King love story, so things aren’t always what they seem! Elizabeth doesn’t know what she wants, but Edward knows what she needs. 

“I Know What You Need” will have its Comic-Con debut at their film festival section on Friday, July 26 at 1:45 PM in Grand Ballroom 6 at the San Diego Marriott Marquis.  In addition, it will be added to ArrowPlayer, the streaming home to cult cinema, on Friday, July 12. 

Marchese is additionally the host on three popular podcasts, Horror Movie Survival Guide, JodoWOWsky and The Loser’s Club. She also co-hosts Horror X, a video show collaboration between The George A. Romero Foundation and Horror Movie Survival Guide,celebrating women in horror.