[press release from Liquid Ideas]
The first fruits of an ambitious project to uncover Australia’s next generation of film talent were unveiled in Sydney last week when the first three short films produced under the John Jameson Productions banner were premiered to widespread acclaim.
The three short films were nothing short of brilliant, unexpected and hilarious and can be viewed at www.johnjamesonproductions.com.au
They will now be screened at both Tropfest and Flickerfest over summer and the St Kilda Film Festival later in 2009.
The films’ writers – William Howarth, Van Badham and Ian Thomson – were the winners of the inaugural John Jameson Productions Scriptwriting Competition and were given the services of some brilliant film-making talent and a $20,000 budget to make their three minute films come to life.
More than 400 film writers, directors, producers and actors including Gyton Grantley, Christie Hayes and Asher Keddie were at Darlinghurst’s Cell Block Theatre for the premiere to view the movies, share a few drinks and walk the Jameson “Green” Carpet.
Underbelly and Rush star Rodger Corser, who introduced the three short films; Octopus, written by Van Badham, My New Toy written by William Howarth and Multiple Choice written by Ian Thompson, said he was blown away by the calibre of all three films.
“The John Jameson Productions Scriptwriting competition presents an amazing opportunity for aspiring film makers,” Corser said.
“Unlike other competitions, you don’t need film industry experience to be successful. You can start with just a great idea and then work with industry professionals to make it a reality.”
John Jameson Productions is an Australian initiative of the global Jameson Irish Whiskey brand to encourage and nurture young Australian film making talent at the same time as encouraging them to make contacts, attend events and open doors to the highly competitive industry.
“My experience throughout the whole John Jameson Productions Scriptwriting Competition has been endlessly rewarding,” winner William Howarth said.
“Very few of us get the opportunity to see our script ideas transform into living, breathing works for the screen, and that in itself has been remarkable.
“The experience I have gained through John Jameson Productions will undoubtedly benefit my further pursuits of a career in the film industry.”
Jameson Irish Whiskey Brand Manager Monica Hart said the John Jameson Productions initiative had been an overwhelming success.
“John Jameson Productions has been an incredible journey for both Jameson Irish Whiskey and our competition winners. It endorses our support both globally and locally for emerging creative talent,” Hart said.
“Having the involvement and support of film industry heavyweights like Academy Award Winner Russell Boyd, and Oscar nominated scriptwriter Jan Sardi has given real credibility to the competition.
“Our partnership with The Feds, our production company, and the response from our winners and the wider film community has further entrenched our position as a genuine supporter of Australian film.”
John Jameson Productions is committed to uncovering new film talent in Australia.
The premiere also marked the official launch of the 2009 John Jameson Productions Scriptwriting Competition and budding scriptwriters are now invited to submit their ideas for a short film online via the John Jameson Productions website.
Entries for the 2009 competition close on February 28, 2009.