Sometimes a couple’s well-intentioned romantic getaway to shift their focus away from their demanding work can ultimately lead to their success. That’s certainly the case for Joe Thomas’ character in the upcoming sci-fi dramedy, ‘Universal.’

Stephen Portland wrote and directed the film. Besides Thomas, the movie also stars Rosa Robson (‘Buffering,’ ‘Black Mountain Poets’) and Kelley Mack (‘The Walking Dead,’ ‘Broadcast Signal Intrusion’).

The latter, who also served as a producer on ‘Universal,’ died last summer. The dramedy, which is Mack’s last on-screen credit, is dedicated to her.

‘Universal’ follows Leo (Thomas), an academic who goes on a romantic getaway with his partner to a remote log cabin in an attempt to shift his focus away from his stressful DNA research. However, their vacation is suddenly interrupted by the arrival of a mysterious woman who tracked them down. She seems to be the key to his research, as she’s seeking their help with what could be the biggest discovery in history.

‘Universal’ had its World Premiere on June 21, 2025 during Dances With Films: LA. Subspin Productions will release the movie on most digital platforms. The dramedy will be available to rent or buy on December 5, 2025.

In honor of Mack, read our interview that she and Portland participated to promote ‘Universal’s World Premiere at Dances With Films: LA in June, two months before her passing in her hometown of Cincinnati on August 2, 2025.