Serving Barnwell County and it's neighbors since 1852
The newest JB Star Production features a familiar face in Barnwell County law enforcement.
Lieutenant Eric Kirkland of the Barnwell County Sheriff’s Office makes his cinematic debut in a 2024 rendition of “Thy Will Be Done,” a movie by Barnwell native Dr. JB Brown focusing on heavy themes such as human trafficking, drug abuse, and much more.
Lt. Kirkland, who plays himself, is featured alongside five other certified law officers such as Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott, who plays the coroner in the murder-for-money plot line.
Brown welcomed Lt. Kirkland’s insight throughout the four-month long filmmaking process to ensure the themes present were being depicted accurately. Lt. Kirkland is not only a career officer, but also serves as co-chairman for the Second Judicial Circuit’s Human Trafficking Task Force.
“It was an awesome opportunity to be able to highlight something as serious as human trafficking, and to represent Barnwell County,” said Lt. Kirkland.
The movie follows the story of Summer Buckner, a female protagonist whose father’s death results in her experiencing a part of her city she never knew before.
Brown began filmmaking 25 years ago in August 1999, and has directed, acted, and produced over ten films.
Many of his films depict ‘real world’ topics such as human trafficking, illegal gambling, drug abuse, and more. Brown too comes into this process with a background in law enforcement, and draws inspiration for his films from past experience.
Although dealing with these topics, the films are consumable for a younger audience as well. Lt. Kirkland’s feature showed him explaining about the dangers of human trafficking to young citizens at a local event.
“I am only inspired by doing what God leads me to do,” he said, explaining filmmaking has been like a ministry.
Brown’s advice to Barnwell County students interested in filmmaking is to “explore what they do best,” and continue to hone that craft - whatever it might be.
During a recent visit to his hometown, Brown assisted volunteers with placing flags for the annual 9/11 memorial at Calhoun Park alongside Lt. Kirkland. This annual display is organized by resident Barbara Christian.
City of Barnwell’s Mayor Ron Still, Lt. Eric Kirkland, and Dr. JB Brown all volunteered to place flags at the annual 9/11 memorial at Calhoun Park. Mayor Still and Dr. Brown are Barnwell High School (BHS) classmates.
Cast and crew were welcomed to a private viewing at Lenoir Rhyne University on August 31. The red carpet premiere of the film will be held in early October.
To learn more about Dr. JB Brown’s films, visit https://www.jbstarpresents.tv/
