By Jon Donnis
Redbreast Irish whiskey is back at the SXSW Film & TV Festival for the second year with its 'Redbreast Unhidden' programme, a global initiative dedicated to uncovering and supporting new filmmaking talent. This year, the project deepens its commitment to emerging voices with BAFTA-winning Irish actor Andrew Scott taking on the role of Executive Producer for the 2026 Redbreast Unhidden Award winner's project.
The award highlights a single exceptional filmmaker from a curated shortlist of short film finalists, chosen for their creativity, authenticity, and craftsmanship, qualities shared with the celebrated Redbreast single pot still whiskey. Andrew Scott, who has previously served as Brand Ambassador, brings his industry experience and insight to elevate the winning filmmaker's work and help it reach audiences worldwide.
This year's shortlist includes Can I Put You On Hold (James Cutler), Imago (Ariel Zengotita), Visitors (Minnie Schedeen), We Were Here (Pranav Bhasin) and Winter Ceremony (Sidi Wang). These films range from intimate family stories to dark comedies and genre-bending narratives, exploring themes of identity, belonging, migration and generational tension, offering a fresh wave of filmmaking unafraid to challenge convention.
"Short films are where many bold, original ideas take root, and where emerging filmmakers often find their voice," said Andrew Scott. "It's a privilege to help discover these stories and support this year's winner as their work reaches the world."
The 2026 Redbreast Unhidden Award winner will receive a project grant and the opportunity to have their film executive-produced by Scott, building on the success of last year's winner, Andy Reid's Brief Somebodies.
The announcement will be made at the SXSW 2026 Film & TV Awards on March 18th.
Francis Román of SXSW , "With Redbreast Unhidden returning and Andrew Scott stepping into an Executive Producer role, we are proud to continue championing bold new voices in filmmaking and giving emerging storytellers a global platform at a crucial point in their careers."
Festival-goers can experience Scott's selection of short films at the Unhidden Showcase, while the Unhidden Speakeasy offers a space to enjoy Redbreast-inspired cocktails.
Francis Román "SXSW has always been about discovery and championing new voices that push the art of filmmaking forward. With the return of Redbreast Unhidden, we're proud to continue spotlighting exceptional short filmmakers whose work reflects bold storytelling. Seeing this initiative grow in its second year, and with Andrew Scott stepping into an Executive Producer role, reinforces our shared commitment to giving emerging storytellers meaningful support and a global platform at a pivotal moment in their careers."
For SXSW 2026, Redbreast is expanding its presence with experiences designed to bring the joy of discovery to festival goers. At the Unhidden Showcase, attendees can explore Scott's selection of cinematic hidden gems, while the Unhidden Speakeasy offers a tucked-away space to enjoy Redbreast cocktails, inspired by the art of storytelling. To learn more and register to attend, visit Redbreast's SXSW page.
Aurelie Torre, VP Marketing for Redbreast Irish Whiskey: "'Redbreast Unhidden' is rooted in the brand's global 'Quite the Find' campaign, which celebrates the thrill of discovering hidden gems - from a remarkable short film to the first sip of Redbreast Irish Whiskey. Building on the success of last year, we are proud to evolve the Redbreast Unhidden platform with Andrew Scott's continued partnership and our shared commitment to creative exploration. We look forward to shining a light on the next generation of creative talent and the cinematic gems waiting to be discovered."
To learn more and register to attend, visit Redbreast's SXSW page - https://www.redbreastwhiskey.com/en-us/redbreast-unhidden-bar-2026
Thanks to Redbreast for an excellent whiskey.
