Jameson First Shot: Entries Are Open
It’s no secret that we’re a keen supporter of the film industry and, for the sixth year, the Jameson First Shot competition is looking to give fearless filmmakers a break.
What’s The Deal?
Jameson First Shot gives a global platform to filmmakers who have the fierce vision and unique voice it takes to make it in this cut-throat industry, but don’t have the benefit of an influential uncle in the movie business to get their foot in the door.
This year three aspiring filmmakers will have the chance to write and direct a short film in Hollywood featuring award-winning British actor / director Dominic West.
Not bad for a first shot!
Why Though?
The Jameson family motto is Sine Metu, Latin for ‘without fear’. But it’s more than just a phrase on a bottle of whiskey. It’s a call to arms. An encouragement to be brave, daring, bold. It’s a mindset that allows you to fear a bit less and live a bit more.
Jameson First Shot dares aspiring filmmakers to be equally fearless, forthright and committed; to write about what matters to them, tell the stories that they want to tell and, ultimately, make the film they want to make.
How To Submit A Script:
STEP ONE: Create your script
STEP TWO: Register your details
STEP THREE: Upload your script
Create
Write an original piece of work, with the final draft being no more than seven pages in length (excluding your title page). Your story should be around the great and/or unexpected things that can happen when you fear a bit less and invite life in.
Download the script template here.
Register
Fill in your personal details and a brief bio at jamesonfirstshot.com/enter. There are no trick questions, so this shouldn’t take long.
Upload
Upload your final script at jamesonfirstshot.com/enter. There are no second chances, so make sure you’re happy with it.
Closing date for entries is 1 June 2017 (17:00 GMT).
The Rules:
Unfortunately, even Hollywood is not above red tape, so don’t have your big break ruined by ignoring the small print!
You must be at least 25 years old to enter.
Your story should be around the great and/or unexpected things that can happen when you fear less and invite life in.
Your script must be no longer than seven A4 pages, excluding your title page, in 12 point Courier (Scorsese’s favourite font).
Only entrants living in USA, South Africa, Ireland, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Bulgaria and Israel are eligible to enter.
Due to alcohol industry regulations people under the age of 25 cannot be depicted.
Scenes that depict drug taking or drug references, drunk driving, excessive violence or excessive drinking will not be accepted.
Your script should include no more than seven cast members (Think Ocean’s 7 – the pre-prequel).
Scripts must be submitted in English.
Only one entry per person – no writing teams (Sorry future Coen brothers).
Multiple submissions will be void.
Each script will be judged by Dana Brunetti, Dominic West and the rest of the Jameson First Shot team.
Also get familiar with the FAQs here.
Some Inspiration From Previous Winners:
‘Beauty Mark’ written and directed by Cameron Thrower starring Maggie Gyllenhaal (2016)
‘Home’ written and directed by Kat Wood starring Maggie Gyllenhaal (2016)
‘The New Empress’ written and directed by Jason Perini starring Maggie Gyllenhaal (2016)
‘The Mascot’ written and directed by Mark Middlewick starring Adrien Brody (2015)
‘The Library Book’ written and directed by Travis Calvert starring Adrien Brody (2015)
‘Boredom’ written and directed by Stephan Tempier starring Adrien Brody (2015)
Head to jamesonfirstshot.com for more details and to submit your script.
Okay lights, camera and… well you know the rest.
Read some golden nuggets of advice from Mark Middlewick, a previous South African winner here.
