Jameson First Shot Winners Announced

American actor Kevin Spacey is known for his acting credentials and for supporting emerging talent in the industry, a reputation he's earned during his 11-year reign at London’s Old Vic theatre.

Although he has stepped down from his position as the stage's artistic director, he has continued to nurture filmmaking talent through supporting the Jameson First Shot competition in partnership with Trigger Street productions.

Currently in its fifth year, the competition (explained by Spacey below) encourages budding writers/directors to share their stories and be in with a chance to create a short film featuring a Hollywood star.

In previous years, these have included Kill Bill actress Uma Thurman, The Pianist actor Adrien Brody and Platoon’s Williem Dafoe.

Applicants from all over the world submitted stories about “the great and/or unexpected things that can happen when you fear less and invite life in” - this year's theme according to the submission guidelines.

But only three were invited to bring their films to life starring this year’s Hollywood actor, Maggie Gyllenhaal.

Of course, in true Spacey style – the trio were not told of their winnings in a conventional way. Instead, Spacey surprised them mysteriously in their hometowns (see video below).

US-born director Cameron Thrower was selected for his short, Beauty Mark; Home will contribute to British writer/producer Kat Wood’s directing debut; while Australian actor/writer/director Jason Perini will work on his film, The New Empress.

They will be flown to LA in due course and set to work immediately on the project. Expect the full shorts to be released later this year.