Opening Shot is delivered by Astar Media as part of the Screen Scotland Talent Builder initiative.
The three elements of Opening Shot will seek out and support new voices, from complete beginners to self-taught filmmakers, in creating bold, original short films with structured support, creative mentoring, and production funding.
Short Films
Opening Shot is designed for people taking their first step into filmmaking. This is for the people who’ve never had the chance, or never thought they were “creative enough”, to try. This programme is open to complete beginners, and anyone with a story to tell.
Applications are closed for 2025.
Learn more about Short Films, or apply to be a partner
Community Workshops
Opening Shot: Community Workshops is designed to introduce the creativity and collaborative spirit of filmmaking to communities across Scotland.
You can apply as a tutor to deliver a workshop, or as a community group to receive a workshop.
Learn more about Community Workshops
Final Checks
Opening Shot: Final Checks is a new fund to support short films that have completed principal photography and need a final push.
The first deadline for Final Checks is 12noon on Friday 30 January 2026.