The initiative is designed to support emerging filmmakers with their first, second or third feature film productions in a world competitive market, and is open to Irish participants for the first time.
The debut JETS scheme is also open to British, Canadian and German filmmakers and will launch during the 67th Berlin International Film Festival.
It is founded by William Peschek of WEP Productions & WEP UK Productions and aims to become a global network for co-productions aimed at emerging filmmakers.
Participants will be provided with an exchange platform to find co-production partners and financing options for their feature film projects.
‘Tyger Tyger’ directed by Mark Noonan and John Keville:
A drama with comedic undertones about a man named Franks trying to recover from the loss of his daughter, and a young woman named Alison who was friends with her. They choose to deal with their loss by putting all their energy into searching for a tiger Franks is convinced has escaped from a passing circus. As sightings of the tiger increase and the community descends into hysteria, Franks and Alison struggle to maintain their unusual friendship and prevent a tragic past from completely overwhelming them.
‘Winter Lake’ directed by Phil Sheerin and Produced by Ruth Treacy & Julianne Forde:
Tom (14) has moved to an old Irish farm with his mother, Elaine. While exploring, Tom comes across an oddity that is the farm’s turlough (a seasonal lake), at the bottom of which he discovers the skeleton of a baby. Unsure what to do, Tom hides it under his bed. Soon he & Elaine become involved with Ward and Holly, a father and daughter living nearby. While Elaine begins a relationship with Ward, Holly learns of Tom’s discovery. Playing on Tom’s infatuation and his protective impulse, Holly draws him into a dark psychosexual mystery.
The JETS jury is composed of industry professionals from each of the participating countries, with Conor Barry of Savage Productions and John McDonnell of Fantastic Films on board for Ireland.
See the JETS Brochure for all Participants and Jury Members