Jackson is a creative kid that loves to draw and create movies. In fact, movies are Jackson’s passion. He’s a sweet, smart and opinionated kid with big dreams. He decided that his wish was the perfect chance to get a jump start on his dream career. He wished to write, direct and star in a movie!

Make-A-Wish found the ideal creative partner for Jackson to work with on his movie project. Calvin Simmons is the Executive Producer at Shout Creative. As soon as he learned about Jackson and his theatrical wish, he immediately said yes. For months the pair worked together to create the movie script of Jackson’s dream. He wanted the movie to be a sci-fi thriller with some comedic flair.

Calvin said, “Working with Jackson was such an incredible experience.  He is like a little George Lucas!  He has huge ideas, boundless enthusiasm and a mind that never stops creating and pushing the boundaries of imagination.  His energy is just so pure and true, and he reminded a lot of us why we got into this field to begin with - to tell fantastic stories.  We had so much fun, I can’t wait for the sequel!”

The next step was to produce the movie. Jackson got to experience the process from the inside, spending a day at Shout Creative Studios filming some scenes in front of green screens. He loved every moment, especially being the director.

The following day it was time for some live action acting at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, which is where Jackson is often treated. This time, he wore a huge smile and got down to the serious business of moviemaking. A professional stylist did his hair and makeup while he got into wardrobe for his role and chatted with his co-star. A mock hospital room was the setting for a pivotal scene in his movie. Surrounded by cameramen, directors and lots of microphones, Jackson felt right at home when the cameras rolled.  

Jackson’s mother continued, “I’m overwhelmed. Make-A-Wish is a blessing to my family, and I can’t say thank you enough. This wish gives him something to look forward to and something that he’ll never forget. I’m amazed at how much has gone into this, all the moving parts.”

After months in production, it was time for the premiere of “Venera” at the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival. All dressed up, Jackson and his family took a chauffeured limousine ride to Savor Cinema where he walked the red carpet surrounded by his family, Make-A-Wish staff and supporters, his medical team and the media. He was surprised to see a bunch of his friends AND his grandparents who flew in from New York for his wish.

Jackson’s father said, “It’s a special day, definitely different from the ordinary day. Jackson is super excited. He’s just beside himself. I can see it in his face. He’s having so much fun and that’s what everybody wants. He’s going to remember his movie and the people that came forever.”

Everyone took their seats in the theater with great anticipation and some movie popcorn as the lights dimmed for the screening of “Venera.” As the closing credits began, the crowd erupted with cheers. Then Jackson sat in the director’s chair for an onstage Q & A session. Jackson’s cinematic dream concluded with photos and autograph signings for his fans.  

Jackson said, “I feel pretty special. Even though there’s a lot of things on this Earth that are way more important than me, I feel like I stick out. Not all kids get to do this. I’m lucky to have this. I am excited. I am so hyped. If I ever get famous making movies and I have kids and I have a wife and I’m providing for them all, I’m always going to look back on this.”

To watch Jackson's debut movie, click here.

Wish Granters: Leslie Levine & Kara Salsburg-Boehly
Referred by Amy Walker, his mother