LOS ANGELES, Oct. 20 (UPI) -- Veteran Hollywood director John Landis has used his talents for a series of six short films focused on aspiring comedians and appearing on JibJab.com.
The short videos from "The Blues Brothers" director are part of Landis' deal with JibJab Media, and visitors to the Web site will be able to vote for the up-and-coming comedian who best deserves a $10,000 development deal from the company, said the Hollywood Reporter.
"We think the Internet offers an incredible platform for a fresh batch of comedians having trouble breaking into the traditional medium," said Gregg Spiridellis, co-founder of JibJab Media. "And for us to have John involved who is widely credited with launching the film careers of the likes of (John) Belushi and (Eddie) Murphy -- it's very symbolic."
Landis said the online competition, which will last until Nov. 16, is a great way for relative unknown talents to bypass typical business barriers and make a name for themselves.
"It's absolutely true that the Internet is a good place for talent," Landis told the paper. "The mission of agents and managers is not necessarily to discover new talent but mostly to set up barricades and protect their old talent."
