In December 2013 the inspirational thriller “Doonby” came to the Star Gratiot Theater in Clinton Township, MI. Using the organization TUGG, Inc., local Michigan filmmaker Rebecca Huey Krupp arranged for ticket buyers to bring this amazing movie directed by Peter Mackenzie to Michigan!
Lead actress Jenn Gotzon, who plays character “Laura Reaper” opposite John Schneider, arrived a few days prior to share her testimony and discuss restoration for those who may empathize with the character she plays on screen at New Wineskin Church and Heartfelt Ministries which also included music by Jason Eaton Band.
The Light Morning Host Chris Stevenson and his wife on red carpet before “Doonby” Michigan Premiere Dec. 9, 2013.
Prior to the movie start, people who purchased red carpet passes were able to meet and greet the actress and evening’s artists on the red carpet as well as receive an autographed poster and take photographs. The emcee was the local radio morning host of The Light in Clinton Township, Chris Stevenson.
Before the movie began, local artist Jason Eaton Band performed. Sean Guerrero, who’s viral music video “Walls” also stars actress Jenn Gotzon, was played on screen as Sean and his guitarist Shane flew in from North Carolina minutes in time to perform the song acoustically (Sean Guerrero – Walls Music Video).
Producer Regina Benjamin Steiger covered the event and showed an inspirational segment from “Hand Of God” (Hand of God – Official Trailer) building excitement for the evening’s main attraction, mystery-romance movie “Doonby”.
After the film, Chris Stevenson opened up the Q & A for Jenn Gotzon and invited the audience to write in Jenn’s journal expressing how the movie “Doonby” may have impacted their life. Gotzon’s message was that everyone would know how significant, important and valued they are, especially during this Christmas season.
The Film Advisory Board awarded actress Jenn Gotzon for “Doonby”, while she also received recognition for her outstanding achievement by helping make a positive impact on culture. She has been slotted as the #1 Top Faith-based / Christian Actress starring in nearly a dozen inspirational, Christian, and/or socially relevant films that either inspire or impact audiences releasing 2013 and 2014. Gotzon uses her movies as a platform to share her testimony to inspire audiences to find theirs.
Actress Jenn Gotzon on air with Chris Stevenson’s The Light Morning Show.
While in the Detroit Area, Ms. Gotzon was a guest of both the afternoon and morning show on 103.5FM WMUZ The Light, hosted by Chris Stevenson and Robin Sullivan. Tickets and passes were given away on air and callers lit up the switchboard wanting to attend. Watch this fun behind the scenes video captured by DJ Ginger Beggs.
Viewers from the “Doonby” premiere commented after about the movie saying, “The ending was a surprise with a message that still inhabits my thoughts and searches for an answer as to ‘What If?’ and ‘What can I do?’”
Another attendee said, “It was an excellent movie with an important point… that God does not make nobodies.”
“Doonby is a thought provoking movie that encompasses the human spirit. It has adventure, mystery, drama and above all, true heart! I left the theater with a whole new appreciation and view on life,” said another premiere goer.
NYC Acting Schoolmates Robbie Lavine and Jenn Gotzon attending “Doonby” Michigan Premiere.
“Jenn’s portrayal of Laura Reaper was especially compelling; she takes you on this roller coaster of emotions, complete with the drop in your stomach when you realize what all the story threads add up to! And you just go: “Wow!” The audience fell in love with her all over again as Jenn gracefully fielded deep, tough questions and inspired us with her passion for telling life-changing stories on screen,” says “In His Step” lead actress Rebekah Cook who also plays in “Christmas Grace” and worked with Gotzon in 3 movies.
“Watching Jenn’s character evolve throughout the story was riveting. Knowing her since we were young and roommates in NYC attending The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts made me feel a sense of pride. There was a deeper meaning to this story that really makes you think how important every soul is on this earth. The cast portrayed it brilliantly Amazing!!!” explained actress Robbie Lavine who teaches acting locally in Michigan and bi-coastal in Los Angeles and NYC.
“Doonby” Michigan Premiere event hosts Rebecca Huey Krupp and DJ Ginger Beggs
Event hosts were Ginger Beggs and Rebecca Huey Krupp from Michigan. Rebecca and Gotzon met during the summer program at The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts in ’98 and have stayed in touch through facebook. Rebecca is currently involved with Motion Pictures in Michigan. Mandi Toan assisted as Jenn’s event & production coordinator.
SCH Contributor Bethany Jett has this to say about Doonby: “If you’re looking for a movie that will keep you intrigued, enthralled, and captivated, Peter Mackenzie’s powerful film Doonby is a sure bet. Not only will you be trying to guess the inevitable twist, (I promise you won’t see it coming), you’ll fall in love with well-rounded characters and have your heartstrings pulled as you relate to some of Doonby’s obstacles.”
Click here to watch the mysterious trailer for Doonby – Official Trailer, or read Doonby – Movie Review
Check out the SCH exclusive interview by Ginny Dent Brant Doonby A Thought-Provoking Classic – This Generation’s It’s A Wonderful Life
To learn more about Doonby, visit ChristianFilmDatabase
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