Spike Lee was a pioneer in several ways when he started making movies in the 1980s. Now with a new Kickstarter campaign, he’s become the latest director to jump on the go-to vehicle for 21st century pioneers (and the occasional celebrity).

Acknowledging Veronica Mars and Zach Braff Wish I Was Here as inspirations, Lee took to the crowdfunding site Monday to ask for $1.25 million to make his new movie, joining a bevy of filmmakers that also includes James Franco. “It’s a very different climate now,” Lee said as he referenced the comparatively easy era in which he was able to get films like 1992's Malcolm X made.

“And the only way to ensure as an independent filmmaker that your vision gets on screen is when you bring your money to the table.”  

Lee was circumspect about the contents of the new film — he hinted there were vampires but didn’t say much more than that. (“This film is about the addiction of blood. Lot of sex too.”) He added in his written appeal that "it's not Blacula'.