Frequently Asked Questions
Jameson First Shot is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work with a Hollywood star, Kevin Spacey and his production company. You don’t want to blow your chances with any silly errors. So, if you’re not sure about anything or want to check the facts, here are the answers to some FAQs.
General
What is the connection between Jameson Irish Whiskey and film?
Jameson has played a part in film since 1998, when the Jameson Short Film Award was created and presented at many film festivals around the world. Jameson is now involved in some of the most innovative and cutting-edge film events happening in all four corners of the globe. Some of our sponsorships include the Jameson Cult Film Club, Done in 60 Seconds, the Jameson Empire Awards and in Independent Spirit Awards, to name but a few. To find out more www.jamesonwhiskey.com
Who are Trigger Street Productions?
Trigger Street Productions is an entertainment production company formed by Kevin Spacey and his producing partner Dana Brunetti in 1997. Trigger Street’s credits include Golden-Globe winning The Social Network and the Emmy-nominated Bernard and Doris, as well as numerous other film productions including 21, Shrink, Fanboys and The Big Kahuna, as well as stage productions of The Iceman Cometh and Cobb. TriggerStreet.com was launched in 2002 as an online community for unrepresented filmmakers, writers, readers, and film aficionados. They now gather together in the virtual space to share, discover, and critique. This community provides a platform for undiscovered talent to showcase their work and gain valuable exposure and feedback that it may not normally have access to.
Where did the name Trigger Street come from?
The name 'Trigger Street' is a reference to an actual street in Spacey's boyhood home of Chatsworth, California where a friend of his lived on the ranch of infamous American cowboy actor, Roy Rogers. Having built the ranch before the property boom, Roy got to name the streets in the neighborhood – one of which he named after his horse, Trigger. Having spent much of his childhood there, Spacey decided Trigger Street would be a name befitting his production company because (in his words) “it was a street that just went on and felt endless to me, so ultimately that was why I chose the name for the company”
Entry Process
Should the seven pages of script be the whole story or just the beginning?
The seven pages should be your whole story. And nothing but your story. We want all of it – beginning, middle and end.
Do the 7 pages include the title page?
The 7 pages do not include the title page.
What’s the minimum number of pages?
Your script must be at least 5 pages but no more than 7 pages in length on A4 paper size in 12 point Courier font. The 7 pages do not include the title page.
Do I have to have 7 cast members?
The script should include a key role that is appropriate for an A-list actor to perform and a maximum of 7 cast.
My script is about a murderer, but there are no scenes of violence – can I still enter?
We cannot feature excessive scenes of violence or excessive use of weaponry, so as long as your script doesn't feature either of these then it will be eligible for entry.
Do I have to write Jameson into my script?
Not at all – just make sure you base your film on one of the three themes – Legendary or Humorous or a Very Tall Tale and follow the rest of the rules as listed on the site.
What do you mean by a ‘tall tale’?
It’s up to you how you interpret the theme, but as a guide we’d say: ‘Legendary’ is the stuff of folklore or urban legend – a tale that has circulated over the years/centuries, over the internet etc. – such an amazing story that it has been repeated & repeated to epic levels; ‘Tall Tale’ something with a little or a lot of exaggeration; ‘Humorous’ – something funny!
What is the budget? What budget should I work to?
We'd recommend that your storyline should not include the need for lots of special effects or have other requirements that would necessitate a considerable budget.
Can I write an adaptation of an existing story?
Your script must be an original story – please refer to the 'Warranty' section of the Terms and Conditions on the website.
What format does my script need to be submitted in?
If you go to http://jamesonfirstshot.com/enter you can download a script format template. Your script or screenplay must be at least 5 pages but no more than 7 pages in length on A4 paper size in 12 pt Courier font and it must also be uploaded as a pdf document.
Can I enter more than one script?
No, it is strictly one entry per person.
Do I have to stick to the themes or can I just write what I want?
Your script MUST be inspired by one of our three themes – Legendary OR Humorous OR a Very Tall Tale. But make sure you’re creative! We’re looking for new, raw talent that can take a subject and write an amazing script around it. You can write about ANYTHING you like, as long as one of the three themes features as part of your story.
Can I use all three themes in my script or can I only choose one?
Just one please – keep it simple
What does Trigger Street mean when they say a story shouldn’t be ‘too grandiose’?
Jameson First Shot is really all about the story and your talent for telling it without the need for big budget stunts, pyrotechnics and CGI. So focus on the quality of your short, not the quality of car chases, exploding helicopters and rampaging extra-terrestrials.
What does Trigger Street mean when they say write from your heart?
They mean that your story should be something that moves you. Not something you’ve written to please the judges. Or something that’s in vogue this week. Or a reboot of an old idea. Write something meaningful to you – an original story that you feel you have to tell.
What happens if I want to make changes to my script after the closing date?
Unfortunately we have to have a cut-off point, so no amends will be able to be made after the closing date. The script that you have uploaded will be submitted into the competition.
Why can you only enter if you live in America, Russia or South Africa?
We have chosen to visit the same markets in the second year of the competition as we went to in 2012, but who knows where Jameson First Shot will take us next year – watch this space.
I live in California – why can’t I enter?
It may be the home of Hollywood, but unfortunately for legal reasons, given that Jameson is the organiser of this competition, Californian residents can’t enter due to regulatory constraints beyond our control. For further information please go to the competition Terms & Conditions.
If I have a friend or family in one of those locations, can I enter from their address?
No, we’re afraid you need to be a resident in one of the eligible locations in order to enter the Jameson First Shot competition.
I’m a resident of US/RU/SA but live abroad - why can't I enter?
Only people who live in America (excluding California), Russia and South Africa are eligible to enter.
I’m staying in US/RU/SA but live in another country – why can't I enter?
Only people who are legal residents of and are living in America (excluding California), Russia and South Africa are eligible to enter.
Can I upload a scene from my screenplay, even if I’m not shortlisted?
No, only scenes from shortlisted candidates will be considered and judged as part of the competition.
Why do I have to be 25 years old or over to enter?
Unfortunately due to legal regulations and restrictions around alcohol brands we're unable to accept entries from anyone under 25.
The Prize FAQs
If I win, can I bring a friend or family member with me?
It’s good to share, however on this occasion you’re on your own. The prize will include flights and accommodation for the winner only. But look on the bright side – you’ll be too busy shooting your short film to miss your friends and family back home!
I don’t have a passport – will Jameson pay for me to get one?
You will need to make your own arrangements to ensure you have the necessary ID and Visas in order to travel to the United States.
What happens if I’m not available to travel to fulfil my prize?
You know what they say about time and tide waiting for no man. It’s a bit like that in the movies. Production time is tight and unfortunately we can’t make any allowances for the winner’s unavailability. If you can’t make it, another candidate will be selected. Sorry, but that’s showbiz…
Website FAQs
Jameson First Shot 2013 is only open to residents from US, South Africa and Russia.
I’ve uploaded a script and I want to change it – how do I do this?
Once you have registered and uploaded your script you will not be able to make any further changes. Submission is strictly one entry per person.
To enter the competition, click here and follow the steps provided.
What format do I need to upload my script in?
Your script must be uploaded as a PDF document.
Please ensure your script is of PDF format. The maximum file size for PDF we will accept is 2MB. Please ensure your PDF file is not greater than 2MB. If you have further issues with uploading your script please contact us.
I get an error on registration saying my email address already exists?
A unique email address is required for your submission to the competition. If you have not registered or you have completed a submission but still receive this error, please contact us.
Some Advice From The Experts
