The 9th Annual Jacksonville Film Production Industry Reception

October 15th the inside of PRI Productions was transformed into an incredible party full of fabulous props and populated by a veritable “Who’s who” of Jacksonville’s film production industry (they even rolled out a red carpet). The occasion was the 9th Annual Jacksonville Film Production Industry Reception at which Don Barton, creator of the famous 1972 horror flick Zaat! was honored. Mr. Barton’s movie has accumulated a national cult following and was recently aired on Turner Classic Movies on Halloween.

Donald E. Barton’s involvement in the local film industry reaches beyond Zaat! to include work with local companies: Russell Film Company, Consolidated Media, DB & Associates, and Barton Films, Inc. He has served as the chairman of the Governor’s Council on Motion Picture and Television Production, and is the co-founder of the Florida Motion Picture Producer’s Association. He also acts as a charter member of the International Quorum Motion Picture Producers. His experience has garnered him special notice from Mayor John Peyton who said,

“The film and television industry is a key contributor to our local economy and continues to aid the city’s reputation for this very competitive business… I congratulate Mr. Barton for his efforts and also commend all of the dedicated workforce and talented individuals who work hard to ensure the prosperity of this industry in Jacksonville.”

As he rose to accept the award, standing next to the original, furry catfish-monster costume, Don Barton was met with the applause of a respectful and adoring crowd. After a moving speech detailing his experiences in local film production (and boy, has he seen it all!) he stepped down to be greeted by his doting wife, Shirley, and their 9 children. Don Barton’s achievements in film production and his contributions to the history of the City of Jacksonville make him well-deserving of the recognition he received.

Special thanks to our courteous sponsors for such a wonderful evening: The Spirit of Hospitality, LiquorGroup.com, Apple Box Productions, PRI Productions, Goodwin Production Services, The Art Institute of Jacksonville, Enterprise Rent A Car, PGA Tour Productions, Durham Building Materials, Liz Morgan PR, Governor’s Office of Film and Entertainment, FMPTA, Law Office of Carolyn Herman, and Mario Peralta Photography.

More photos from this event are available on our photobucket site, here:  The 9th Annual Jacksonville Film Production Industry Reception