Long before Hollywood embraced diversity, Jacksonville’s Norman Studios was breaking barriers with “race films” that cast Black actors in heroic, leading roles. Now a historical film museum, the studio preserves a powerful and often-overlooked legacy.
These days, Hollywood is the movie-making capital of the world. But had Los Angeles not lured filmmakers to go west, we might be hearing “Lights, Camera, Action!” in Jacksonville, and the River City could have been the film-making capital of the world.
Norman Studios is known as one of the first studios in the nation to pioneer films that starred African American actors in positive roles. Next month, it will be celebrating two years being open.
The new set building at the National Historic Landmark will be named in honor of local preservationist Rita Reagan, who passed away in 2023 shortly after the museum opened.
Jacksonville's film scene has grown from Norman Studios to include a number of small, low budget productions as well as television shows and more. With the creation of multiple film festivals, the creative imprint launched here has expanded to garner international attention. Dr. Shaun Powell has played an integral role in that recent growth promoting artists, filmmakers, actors and productions. She is currently producing her film The Honeydripper Lady is already gaining notoriety before production is complete. KK Cherney and Devenia McFadden dropped by the River City Plus Studio to chat about the film and the burgeoning film scene in Jacksonville.
The River City was once the winter film capital of the world and a major contributor of silent films. Norman Studios, located in Arlington, was among the first studios in the nation to produce films starring African Americans in positive roles.
Norman Studios was one of the first places in America to produce movies starring black casts. In fact, Norman studios created many films with all-black casts. His films allowed African Americans to be portrayed in positive roles at a time when mainstream media only featured African Americans in negative, stereotypical roles. Today, Norman Studios is a nonprofit dedicated to sharing the story of Richard Norman, and all of Jacksonville’s film history. Jacksonville was once known as the “Winter Film Capital of the World.” Norman Studios wants to make sure people know it.
Back in the day, silent film stars could be seen strolling down Main Street. All of a sudden crowds would gather to watch. They would encounter stars like Babe Hardy. You know him better as Oliver Hardy, part of the film duo Laurel and Hardy.
