Andrew Scott And Redbreast Irish Whiskey Champion Emerging Filmmakers

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best arts and entertainment magazine UK“, Andrew Scott and Redbreast Irish Whiskey are returning to SXSW 2026, where the acclaimed actor will serve as Executive Producer for the winner of the Redbreast Unhidden Award, continuing their commitment to discovering and supporting emerging filmmaking talent through bold, authentic short films.

Redbreast, the world’s most awarded single pot still Irish whiskey, is returning to the SXSW Film & TV Festival in 2026 with its acclaimed “Redbreast Unhidden” initiative. The program continues its mission to discover and support hidden talent in filmmaking, this year with BAFTA-winning actor Andrew Scott stepping up as Executive Producer for the winning project.

Deepening Support for New Voices in Cinema

Now in its second year, Redbreast Unhidden serves as a global platform dedicated to uncovering exceptional short films and the emerging filmmakers behind them. Partnering again with Andrew Scott — an Irish actor known for his acclaimed work across film, television, and stage — the whiskey brand aims to highlight authentic, bold storytelling that mirrors the craftsmanship found in its single pot still whiskey.

Scott has expanded his role from Brand Ambassador to Executive Producer for the 2026 Redbreast Unhidden Award winner. His industry expertise and creative insight will help guide the selected filmmaker’s next project, providing both financial support through a project grant and high-level mentorship to bring the work to wider audiences.

The 2026 Redbreast Unhidden Award Shortlist

Andrew Scott personally curated this year’s shortlist of finalists from standout submissions at SXSW. The selected films are:

• Can I Put You On Hold (James Cutler)
• Imago (Ariel Zengotita)
• Visitors (Minnie Schedeen)
• We Were Here (Pranav Bhasin)
• Winter Ceremony (Sidi Wang)

These works span intimate family dramas, dark comedies, and genre-blending narratives. Together, they explore compelling themes including identity, belonging, migration, generational divides, and the complexities of modern life. The films showcase a new generation of filmmakers who challenge conventions and offer fresh perspectives.

Values of Craftsmanship and Discovery

The Redbreast Unhidden Award reflects the same core principles embodied by the whiskey itself: authenticity, depth, and uncompromising quality. Short films are often where bold ideas first take shape and where emerging directors develop their unique voices. By recognizing one exceptional filmmaker at SXSW, the award provides meaningful visibility and long-term career support at a critical stage.

This builds directly on the success of the 2025 inaugural winner, Andy Reid’s Brief Somebodies. The 2026 winner will be announced at the SXSW Film & TV Awards on March 18, 2026.

Expanded Experiences at SXSW 2026

Redbreast is enhancing its presence at the festival to immerse attendees in the spirit of discovery. The Unhidden Showcase will feature Scott’s curated selection of cinematic gems, while the Unhidden Speakeasy offers an intimate, tucked-away space for guests to enjoy Redbreast-inspired cocktails.

These activations tie into the brand’s global “Quite the Find” campaign, which celebrates the excitement of uncovering exceptional experiences — whether a standout short film or a remarkable whiskey.

A Shared Commitment to Creative Excellence

SXSW has long been a launchpad for new voices that push filmmaking boundaries. The continued collaboration with Redbreast Unhidden reinforces this ethos, offering emerging storytellers both recognition and tangible resources.

Through this partnership, Redbreast and Andrew Scott are investing in the next wave of creative talent, ensuring that exceptional craft in storytelling receives the attention it deserves. Festival-goers and film enthusiasts can look forward to powerful new narratives emerging from this initiative in the years ahead.

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Redbreast Irish Whiskey serves, at www.redbreastwhiskey.com/en/redbreast-unhiddensxsw/ and follow @RedbreastIrishWhiskey and @RedbreastUS.

To learn more and register to attend, visit Redbreast’s SXSW page.