Press release from Cav Con
Jameson Irish Whiskey announced the three winning screenwriters for the 2010 John Jameson Productions (JJP) film project at an exclusive lunch event held at Walsh Bay’s Wharf Restaurant yesterday, Wednesday 9 June 2010.
Announced by a panel of industry experts, including actors Damian Walshe-Howling (Underbelly II, 2008; Rescue Special Ops, 2009) and Claudia Karvan (Secret Life of Us 2001-2003; Love My Way, 2004-2007); screenwriter and President of the Australian Writer’s Guild, Ian David; Director, Lisa Shaunessy (Chaotic Pictures); and screenwriter, John Collee (Happy Feet, 2006; Master and Commander, 2003).
The three winners for 2010 are:
• Jonathan Samiec (NSW) – ‘Roman’s Ark’
• Jim Lounsbury & Behren Schulz (NSW) – ‘AUStronauts’
• Kate Schmitt (VIC) – ‘Seamstress’
With a supporting production budget of $20,000 per film, each screenwriter will now have their screenplay further work-shopped with the help of some of the industry’s leading lights, before the film production process begins in earnest under the guidance of production partner, Chaotic Pictures.
"We are thrilled at Chaotic Pictures to be producing this year's winning scripts. They were all of an enormously high calibre, coming from talented writers with great ideas,” said Lisa Shaunessy, Director of Chaotic Pictures.
“The three winning scripts represent a great cross-section of genres and will really showcase these writer's talents. It's going to be a very exciting year for John Jameson Productions and we look forward to working closely with the writers on bringing their visions to the screen."
Each winning screenwriter will also be ably assisted by one of Australia’s best up and coming directing talents. They include Oscar-nominated director, Luke Doolan (Miracle Fish, 2009; Magic Happens: The Story of ‘The Magician’, 2006; Sold Out, 2004); Gracie Otto (La Meme Nuit, 2007; Tango Trois, 2005; Broken Beat, 2005; Kill Blondes, 2004) and Seth Larney (The Clearing, 2010).
The JJP competition – arguably one of Australia’s most exciting short film competitions – is now in its third year, and provides one of the most unique platforms for budding film industry types to see their vision come to life on the big screen.
Applicants were first required to write a 200 word synopsis of their short film concept, with the single overall criteria remaining that the film incorporates an ‘unexpected ending’.
The three films will go into production mid year, before making their screen debut at an exclusive JJP film premiere event in late October 2010.
For more information on the JJP film project and to watch films from previous winners, please visit www.johnjamesonproductions.com.au