Film & Cinematography News South Africa

Winning filmmakers premiere in LA, includes South African

Jameson First Shot's winning filmmakers premiered their short films to the global film community in Los Angeles, with the expert help of Academy Award-winner Kevin Spacey, Dana Brunetti, president of Trigger Street productions and lead actor, Adrien Brody.

Travis Calvert from the US, Mark Middlewick from South Africa and Stephan Tempier from Canada were chosen by the internationally acclaimed short film competition, that gives undiscovered filmmakers a chance to break into the film industry. Following in the footsteps of Kevin Spacey, Willem Dafoe and Uma Thurman, this year the chosen three directed Academy Award-winner, Adrien Brody as the lead in their films, all with the backing and expertise of award-winning production company, Trigger Street Productions.

South African winner Mark Middlewick said, "Jameson First Shot is an opportunity any undiscovered filmmaker could only dream about. It's given my work the pedestal to be seen by a worldwide audience, allowed me unprecedented access to the industry, and instilled in me the confidence to persevere and keep pursuing my dream." His script, entitled 'The Mascot', tells the story of Adam, the mascot for the Pittsburgh Pandas basketball team. Adam's life revolves around the character and the job - until he is fired and decides to confront the man who has replaced him.


US winner, Travis Calvert said, "Having made my film in LA with Adrien & Trigger Street, I can honestly say that winning this has been a once in a lifetime opportunity that has left me feeling honoured, humbled, grateful, inspired, and hopeful for the future." His script, entitled 'The Library Book', tells the story of Desmond, a modest man and his encounter with a stern librarian. Whilst returning an overdue book to a failing library, Desmond finds himself embroiled in existential discussions and unexpected outcomes.

Canadian Winner, Stephan Tempier said, "This has been an exciting and tremendous learning experience and it was a privilege to be one of this year's winners." His script, 'Boredom' tells the story of Danny, a 40-year-old who chooses to remain a child - no matter what anyone else thinks.

View more Jameson First Shot films: www.youtube.com/user/jamesonwhiskey.

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