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{{short description|American musician and film producer}}
{{Infobox person
{{Infobox person
| image = Jimmy lifton at vet 50 gala.jpg
| image = Jimmy lifton at vet 50 gala.jpg
| caption = Jimmy Lifton honoring veterans at the Lifton Institute of Media Arts & Sciences Vet 50 Gala
| caption = Lifton honoring veterans at the Lifton Institute of Media Arts & Sciences Vet 50 Gala
| birth_name = James Ian Lifton
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|mf=yes|1955|1|13}}
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|mf=yes|1955|1|13}}
| birth_place = [[Detroit]], Michigan, U.S.
| birth_place = [[Detroit]], Michigan, U.S.
⚫
| residence = [[Valencia, Santa Clarita, California]]
| occupation = Musician, producer
| occupation = Musician, producer
| years_active = 1978–present
| years_active = 1978–present
| spouse = {{marriage|Paulette Victor-Lifton|1997|2016|reason=divorced}}
| spouse = {{marriage|Paulette Victor-Lifton|1997|2016|reason=divorced}}
}}
}}
'''James Ian Lifton''' (born January 13, 1955), also known as '''Jimmy Lifton''', is an American musician and film producer. Lifton's first major film production was the horror cult classic ''[[Mirror, Mirror (1990 film)|Mirror, Mirror]]'' (1990).{{citation needed|date=August 2016}} Since then, he has produced 18 feature films, working with actors like [[Mark Ruffalo]], [[Christina Ricci]], [[Hulk Hogan]], [[James Brolin]], [[Traci Lords]], and [[Bruce Campbell]]. Lifton co-founded a post-production company called Oracle Post in 1996. Oracle Post provides picture and sound needs for feature films and television, and has a client base that consists of companies like [[Fox Broadcasting Company|Fox]], [[HBO]], [[NBC]], [[Universal Studios, Inc.|Universal]], [[The Walt Disney Company|Disney]], [[Nickelodeon]], [[Paramount Pictures|Paramount]], [[Sony]], [[Warner Brothers]], and [[MTV]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://oraclepost.com/credits/ |title=Oracle Post Credits |date=June 17, 2012}}</ref>
'''James Ian Lifton''' (born January 13, 1955), known as '''James Lifton''' and '''Jimmy Lifton''', is an American musician and a producer who has worked on over 40 television and film productions. In 1983, while in [[Los Angeles]], Lifton focused on studio work and scored symphonic-type music for the [[Griffith Observatory]]. For one of the planetary programs, Lifton played background music while science fiction writer [[Ray Bradbury]] read prose and poetry.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archive.cantonpl.org/observer/1983/01_Jan%201983/01-24-1983.pdf |title=Canton Observer |page=3C |date=January 24, 1983}}</ref> He released a song called "[[I'm a Man (The Spencer Davis Group song)|I'm A Man]]" in 1986, written by [[Jimmy Miller]] and [[Steve Winwood]], which made it to #23 on the Billboard music charts.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.billboard.com/biz/search/charts?f[[0]]=ts_chart_artistname%3AJimmy%20Lifton&f[[1]]=ss_bb_type%3Achart_item&type=2&artist=Jimmy%20Lifton |title=Billboard Magazine Chart: 1983 |publisher=Billboard.com |date=December 27, 1986}}</ref> ''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' also nominated him for "Best Independent Production Of The Year" in 1985.

Lifton's first major film production was the horror cult classic, ''[[Mirror, Mirror (film)|Mirror, Mirror]]'' (1990).{{citation needed|date=August 2016}} Since then, he has gone on to produce 18 feature films, working with such talent as [[Mark Ruffalo]], [[Christina Ricci]], [[Hulk Hogan]], [[James Brolin]], [[Traci Lords]], and [[Bruce Campbell]] to name a few. In 1998, Lifton produced a film titled Monkey Business, which starred young rising star [[Shia LeBouf]]. Shia earned his [[Screen Actors Guild]] card from his role in the film. Lifton co-founded a post production company called Oracle Post in 1996.

Oracle Post provides picture and sound needs for feature films and television and has a client base which consists of such industry giants as [[Fox Broadcasting Company|Fox]], [[HBO]], [[NBC]], [[Universal Studios|Universal]], [[The Walt Disney Company|Disney]], [[Nickelodeon]], [[Paramount Pictures|Paramount]], [[Sony]], [[Warner Brothers]] and [[MTV]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://oraclepost.com/credits/ |title=Oracle Post Credits |date=June 17, 2012}}</ref> Through Lifton's work with Oracle Post he has earned 15 [[Motion Picture Sound Editors|Golden Reel Awards]] nominations,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.btlnews.com/awards/mpse-golden-reel-awards-honor-the-contributions-of-sound/ |title=MPSE Golden Reel Awards Honor the Contributions of Sound |date=February 22, 2011}}</ref> 5 of which he won, and 5 [[Daytime Emmy Award|Daytime Emmy]] nominations,<ref name="38th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Penguins of Madagascar">{{cite web|url=http://www.emmyonline.org/mediacenter/_pdf/day_1011_nominations.pdf |title=38th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Penguins of Madagascar |page=85 |date=June 17, 2012}}</ref><ref name="39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness">{{cite web|url=http://cdn.emmyonline.org/day_39th_nominations.pdf |title=39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness |page=71 |date=June 17, 2012}}</ref><ref name="39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Penguins of Madagascar">{{cite web|url=http://cdn.emmyonline.org/day_39th_nominations.pdf |title=39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Penguins of Madagascar |page=71 |date=June 17, 2012}}</ref><ref name="39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – SpongeBob SquarePants">{{cite web|url=http://cdn.emmyonline.org/day_39th_nominations.pdf |title=39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – SpongeBob SquarePants |page=71 |date=June 17, 2012}}</ref><ref name="40th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – SpongeBob SquarePants">{{cite web|url=http://www.emmyonline.org/mediacenter/daytime_40th_nominations.html |title=40th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – SpongeBob SquarePants |date=June 17, 2012}}</ref> 2 of which he won for Outstanding Sound Editing – Live Action and Animation for ''[[The Penguins of Madagascar]]'' (2008)<ref name="38th Daytime Emmy Award Winners">{{cite web|url=http://www.emmyonline.org/mediacenter/_pdf/day_1011_telecast_winners.pdf |title=38th Daytime Emmy Award Winners|date=June 19, 2011}}</ref> and Outstanding Sound Editing – Animation for ''[[Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness]]'' (2011).<ref name="39th Daytime Emmy Award Winners">{{cite web|url=http://www.emmyonline.org/mediacenter/_pdf/day_1112_creative_arts_winners_v02.pdf |title=39th Daytime Emmy Award Winners |date=June 17, 2012}}</ref>


== Early life ==
== Early life ==
James Ian Lifton was born in the Detroit area of Michigan.<ref name="Facebook">{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/jimmy.lifton.7/about?section=bio&pnref=about |title=Jimmy Lifton About |date=April 18, 2014|via=Facebook}}</ref> Lifton got an early start to his creative career and at a young age he was graced with an apprenticeship to the Master Organist for the [[Detroit Symphony Orchestra|Detroit Symphony]].<ref name="Facebook" /><ref name="Celebrity Net Worths – Jimmy Lifton">{{cite web|url=http://celebritynetworths.org/net-worth/jimmy-lifton-net-worth/ |title=Celebrity Net Worths – Jimmy Lifton |date=October 19, 2015}}</ref> In 1972, Lifton started his first serious band called Merlin, which was the first Detroit based mixed race Rock and Roll band. Merlins' most notable performances were at the People's Ballroom, in [[Ann Arbor, Michigan|Ann Arbor]], where they opened for vocalist [[Mitch Ryder]] and The Knock Down Party Band,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.motorcitymusicarchives.com/people'sballroom.html |title=Peoples Ballroom Act List}}</ref> and [[Bob Seger]]. Lifton attend [[The Royal Conservatory of Music]]<ref name="Facebook" /><ref name="Celebrity Net Worths – Jimmy Lifton" /> from home, and earned a degree in Piano. After graduation, Lifton put Merlin on hold to further his education and moved to [[Boston]] to attend [[Berklee College of Music|Berklee School of Music]].<ref name="Facebook" /><ref name="Celebrity Net Worths – Jimmy Lifton" /> It was not long before Lifton decided he had learned all that he could from the education system and moved back to Michigan to actively pursue a career in the Music Industry.
Lifton was born in Detroit, Michigan.<ref name="Facebook">{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/jimmy.lifton.7/about?section=bio&pnref=about |title=Jimmy Lifton About |date=April 18, 2014|via=Facebook}}</ref> He got an early start to his creative career, and at a young age he was graced with an apprenticeship to the Master Organist for the [[Detroit Symphony Orchestra|Detroit Symphony]].<ref name="Facebook" /><ref name="Celebrity Net Worths – Jimmy Lifton">{{cite web|url=http://celebritynetworths.org/net-worth/jimmy-lifton-net-worth/ |title=Celebrity Net Worths – Jimmy Lifton |date=October 19, 2015}}</ref> In 1972, Lifton started his first band, Merlin. Merlin's most notable performances were at the People's Ballroom, in [[Ann Arbor, Michigan|Ann Arbor]], where they opened for vocalist [[Mitch Ryder]] and The Knock Down Party Band,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.motorcitymusicarchives.com/people'sballroom.html |title=Peoples Ballroom Act List}}</ref> and [[Bob Seger]]. Lifton attend [[The Royal Conservatory of Music]]<ref name="Facebook" /><ref name="Celebrity Net Worths – Jimmy Lifton" /> and earned a degree in piano. After graduation, Lifton moved to [[Boston]] to attend [[Berklee College of Music|Berklee School of Music]].<ref name="Facebook" /><ref name="Celebrity Net Worths – Jimmy Lifton" /> Soon he decided he had learned all that he could and moved back to Michigan to pursue a career in the music industry.


== Career ==
== Career ==
=== Music ===
=== Music ===
[[File:Jimmy Lifton singing 1980.jpg|thumb|Lifton performing live circa 1980]]
[[File:Jimmy Lifton singing 1980.jpg|thumb|Lifton performing live circa 1980]]
Lifton started off his musical career at age 21, working as a studio session player for multiple Detroit based studios, most notably [[Don Davis (record producer)|Don Davis's]] famed Motown recording studio Groovesville Productions<ref>{{cite web|url=http://soulfuldetroit.com/web01-soulfuldetroit/groovesville.htm|title=SoulfulDetroit – ''Groovesville Productions'' – Great Soul Music Recording Studios of Detroit}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.discogs.com/label/308577-Groovesville-Music|title=Discogs – ''Groovesville Music'' – profile and discography}}</ref> and Lorio Recording Studio. After gaining valuable work experience, Lifton co-founded his own record label called Orphan Records with Virginia Perfili in 1981 and released his first single titled I Want To Talk To You in 1982. Lifton released his first EP titled ''Untitled'' in 1984. The EP consisted of songs "I Wanna Talk To You", "Of Mystics", "Soldier", "Silence", "Harmony", and "Time We Were On Our Way".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.discogs.com/Jimmy-Lifton-Untitled/release/3866625 |title=Jimmy Lifton Discography – Untitled |date=1984}}</ref>
Lifton started off his professional musical career at age 21, working as a studio session player for Detroit-based studios, most notably [[Don Davis (record producer)|Don Davis's]] famed Motown recording studio Groovesville Productions<ref>{{cite web|url=http://soulfuldetroit.com/web01-soulfuldetroit/groovesville.htm|title=SoulfulDetroit – ''Groovesville Productions'' – Great Soul Music Recording Studios of Detroit}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.discogs.com/label/308577-Groovesville-Music|title=Discogs – ''Groovesville Music'' – profile and discography|website=[[Discogs]] }}</ref> and Lorio Recording Studio. Lifton co-founded his own record label, Orphan Records, with Virginia Perfili in 1981, and released his first single, "I Want to Talk to You", in 1982. Lifton released his first EP, ''Untitled'', in 1984. The EP consisted of songs "I Wanna Talk to You", "Of Mystics", "Soldier", "Silence", "Harmony", and "Time We Were on Our Way".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.discogs.com/Jimmy-Lifton-Untitled/release/3866625 |title=Jimmy Lifton Discography – Untitled |website=[[Discogs]] |date=1984}}</ref>


In 1986, Lifton collaborated with [[Jimmy Miller]] and [[Steve Winwood]] to create a cover for their timeless hit song "I'm A Man".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.discogs.com/Jimmy-Lifton-Im-A-Man/release/411883 |title=Jimmy Lifton Discography – I'm A Man |date=1986}}</ref> The music video for "I'm A Man" featured live performance footage as well as dancers, most notably August 1986 ''[[Playboy]]'' playmate [[Ava Fabian]]. The video was directed by David Golden, produced by [[Marina Sargenti]], with John LeBlanc serving as cinematographer.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=tiQEAAAAMBAJ&pg=RA1-PA59&lpg=RA1-PA59&dq=jimmy+lifton+orphan+records&source=bl&ots=rucqM2rZOZ&sig=VWl2Ofqyn8&nbsp;HzmtTiZipGD4ZFQm8&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj1rJKNz6POAhUE8mMKHR7-AwQQ6AEIPjAF#v=onepage&q=jimmy%20lifton%20orphan%20records&f=false |title=1986 Billboard Magazine |page=59 |date=December 27, 1986}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2SQEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA38&lpg=PA38&dq=jimmy+lifton+i%27&nbsp;m+a+man+music+video&source=bl&ots=FOWZZPciFk&sig=wfg8yJZ8YDexJ2GuFQcDqpOiJSo&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwi1k8br56POAhUM92MKHVEeAmgQ6AEIIzAC#v=onepage&q=jimmy%20lifton%20i'm%20a%20man%20music%20video&f=false |title=1986 Billboard Magazine |page=38 |date=December 20, 1986}}</ref> Lifton self promoted the video, driving the song to #23 on the Billboard Magazine charts,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.billboard.com/biz/search/charts?f[[0]]=ts_chart_artistname%3AJimmy%20Lifton&f[[1]]=ss_bb_type%3Achart_item&type=2&artist=Jimmy%20Lifton |title=Billboard Magazine Chart |date=1986}}</ref> which generated enough attention for Atlantic Records to take notice, leading them to buy the license to the song and sign Lifton to a record deal.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.discogs.com/Jimmy-Lifton-Im-A-Man/master/236891 |title=Jimmy Lifton Discography – I'm A Man |date=1986}}</ref>
In 1986, Lifton collaborated with [[Jimmy Miller]] and [[Steve Winwood]] to create a cover for their hit song "I'm a Man".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.discogs.com/Jimmy-Lifton-Im-A-Man/release/411883 |title=Jimmy Lifton Discography – I'm A Man |website=[[Discogs]] |date=1986}}</ref> The music video featured live performance footage as well as dancers like August 1986 ''[[Playboy]]'' playmate [[Ava Fabian]]. The video was directed by David Golden, produced by [[Marina Sargenti]], with John LeBlanc serving as cinematographer.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=tiQEAAAAMBAJ&q=jimmy+lifton+orphan+records&pg=RA1-PA59 |title=1986 Billboard Magazine |page=59 |date=December 27, 1986}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2SQEAAAAMBAJ&q=jimmy+lifton+i%27m+a+man+music+video&pg=PA38 |title=1986 Billboard Magazine |page=38 |date=December 20, 1986}}</ref> Lifton self promoted the video, driving the song to #23 on the Billboard charts,<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/biz/search/charts?f[[0]]=ts_chart_artistname%3AJimmy%20Lifton&f[[1]]=ss_bb_type%3Achart_item&type=2&artist=Jimmy%20Lifton |title=Billboard Magazine Chart |magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] |date=1986}}</ref> which generated enough attention for Atlantic Records to take notice, leading them to buy the license and sign Lifton to a record deal.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.discogs.com/Jimmy-Lifton-Im-A-Man/master/236891 |title=Jimmy Lifton Discography – I'm A Man |website=[[Discogs]] |date=1986}}</ref>


Lifton enjoyed the process of making videos and started exploring the relatively new world of music videos. Lifton worked extensively with [[Bruce Nazarian]] and together the two produced many 12" records that appeared on Lifton's Orphan Records. Through his relationship with Bruce Nazarian, Lifton was hired in 1986 by [[Island Records]] to direct [[Millie Scott]]'s music video for her song Automatic. By involving himself with making music videos, Lifton became more and more interested in the art of filmmaking. By 1987, Lifton decided to pursue his growing love for filmmaking and got his foot in the door of the film industry by working on the soundtrack of the feature film Kandyland. Through his work on Kandyland Lifton discovered he had a talent for scoring film and started involving himself with more film projects.
Lifton enjoyed the process of making videos and started exploring the relatively new world of music videos. Lifton worked extensively with [[Bruce Nazarian]]; together, they produced many 12" records that appeared on Orphan Records. Through his relationship with Bruce Nazarian, Lifton was hired in 1986 by [[Island Records]] to direct [[Millie Scott]]'s music video for her song "Automatic". By involving himself with making music videos, Lifton became more and more interested in the art of filmmaking. By 1987, Lifton got his foot in the door of the film industry by working on the soundtrack of the feature film ''[[Kandyland]]''.


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=== Filmmaking ===
⚫
In 1990, Lifton released his first feature-length film titled ''[[Mirror, Mirror (film)|Mirror, Mirror]]''. Lifton produced the film as well as composed the music and worked on the mechanical effects.<ref name="celebrities.prettyfamous.com">{{cite web|url=http://celebrities.prettyfamous.com/l/1378442/Jimmy-Lifton |title=Jimmy Lifton|publisher=celebrities.prettyfamous.com}}</ref> Lifton's involvement with the film industry led him to co-founding Oracle Post with Paulette Victor-Lifton in 1996. From 1996 until the late 2000s, Lifton contributed to many film and TV productions, most notably ''[[Blade: The Series]]'', ''[[SpongeBob SquarePants]]'', ''[[The Penguins of Madagascar]]'', and ''[[Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness]]''.<ref name="Celebrity Net Worths – Jimmy Lifton" /><ref name="celebrities.prettyfamous.com" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/celebrities/jimmy-lifton-57477518/ |title=hollywood.com – Jimmy Lifton}}</ref> Lifton's Oracle Post grew to become one of the largest independent post-production audio studios in Los Angeles. Oracle post was used as the ADR facility for film productions ''[[Righteous Kill]]'' (2008), ''[[Saw V]]'', and ''[[Superman Returns]]'' (2006), and TV shows ''[[Curb Your Enthusiasm]]'' (1999–2004), ''[[NCIS (TV series)|NCIS]]'' (2005–2006), ''[[Punk'd]]'' (2005–2006), and ''[[The X's]]'' (2005–2006).<ref name="Celebrity Net Worths – Jimmy Lifton" /><ref name="Unity Studios press release">{{cite web|url=http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/unity-studios-and-lifton-institute-for-media-skills-report-hiring-stats-on-first-graduating-class-94871474.html|title=Unity Studios and Lifton Institute for Media Skills Report Hiring Stats on First Graduating Class|publisher=Unity Studios|type=Press release|via=PR News Wire |date=May 25, 2010}}</ref>
⚫
[[File:Jimmy-Lifton-Mark-Ruffalo-1994.jpg|thumb|Lifton with Mark Ruffalo on the set of Mirror, Mirror 2: Raven Dance]] In 1990, Lifton released his first feature-length film, ''[[Mirror, Mirror (1990 film)|Mirror, Mirror]]'', starring [[Karen Black]], [[Yvonne De Carlo]], and [[William Sanderson]]. The film was directed by [[Marina Sargenti]]. Lifton produced the film, composed the music, and worked on the mechanical effects.<ref name="celebrities.prettyfamous.com">{{cite web|url=http://celebrities.prettyfamous.com/l/1378442/Jimmy-Lifton|title=Jimmy Lifton|publisher=celebrities.prettyfamous.com}}</ref> The 1994 sequel, ''[[Mirror, Mirror 2: Raven Dance]]'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/movies/mirror-mirror-2-raven-dance-59146151/|title=Mirror, Mirror II: Raven Dance|date=1993|publisher=hollywood.com}}</ref> starring [[Mark Ruffalo]], [[Sally Kellerman]], and [[Roddy McDowall]], was the first film Lifton directed and co-wrote.


⚫
He co-founded Oracle Post with Paulette Victor-Lifton in 1996. From 1996 until the late 2000s, Lifton contributed to many film and TV productions, most notably ''[[Blade: The Series]]'', ''[[SpongeBob SquarePants]]'', ''[[The Penguins of Madagascar]]'', and ''[[Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness]]''.<ref name="Celebrity Net Worths – Jimmy Lifton" /><ref name="celebrities.prettyfamous.com" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/celebrities/jimmy-lifton-57477518/|title=hollywood.com – Jimmy Lifton}}</ref> Oracle post was used as the ADR facility for film productions ''[[Righteous Kill]]'' (2008), ''[[Saw V]]'', and ''[[Superman Returns]]'' (2006), and TV shows ''[[Curb Your Enthusiasm]]'' (1999–2004), ''[[NCIS (TV series)|NCIS]]'' (2005–2006), ''[[Punk'd]]'' (2005–2006), and ''[[The X's]]'' (2005–2006).<ref name="Celebrity Net Worths – Jimmy Lifton" /><ref name="Unity Studios press release">{{cite web|url=http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/unity-studios-and-lifton-institute-for-media-skills-report-hiring-stats-on-first-graduating-class-94871474.html|title=Unity Studios and Lifton Institute for Media Skills Report Hiring Stats on First Graduating Class|date=May 25, 2010|publisher=Unity Studios|type=Press release|via=PR News Wire}}</ref>
Lifton won multiple [[Motion Picture Sound Editors|Golden Reel Awards]] and was nominated for multiple [[Daytime Emmy Award]]s for his work on ''[[SpongeBob SquarePants]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mpse.org/goldenreels/2008awards/2008tvnominees.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130607160139/http://www.mpse.org/goldenreels/2008awards/2008tvnominees.html |title=2008 Golden Reel Award Nominees: Television|date=2008|archive-date=June 7, 2013|dead-url=yes}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/race/golden-reel-nominees-413536 |title=hollywoodreporter.com |date=January 17, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://mpse.org/golden-reel-awards/past-awards/2013-awards/2013-television/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231022633/http://mpse.org/golden-reel-awards/past-awards/2013-awards/2013-television/ |title=Motion Picture Sound Editors |date=2013|archive-date=December 31, 2013|dead-url=yes}}</ref> Lifton won a Daytime Emmy Award as well as multiple Golden Reel Awards for his work on ''[[The Penguins of Madagascar]]'' (2008).<ref name="38th Daytime Emmy Award Winners" /> In 2012, Lifton won a Daytime Emmy Award for his work on ''[[Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness]]'' (2011).<ref name="38th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Penguins of Madagascar" /><ref name="39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness" /><ref name="39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Penguins of Madagascar" /><ref name="39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – SpongeBob SquarePants" /><ref name="40th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – SpongeBob SquarePants" /><ref name="39th Daytime Emmy Award Winners" />


Lifton won multiple [[Motion Picture Sound Editors|Golden Reel Awards]] and was nominated for multiple [[Daytime Emmy Award]]s for his work on ''[[SpongeBob SquarePants]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mpse.org/goldenreels/2008awards/2008tvnominees.html|title=2008 Golden Reel Award Nominees: Television|date=2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130607160139/http://www.mpse.org/goldenreels/2008awards/2008tvnominees.html|archive-date=June 7, 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/race/golden-reel-nominees-413536|title=hollywoodreporter.com|website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=January 17, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://mpse.org/golden-reel-awards/past-awards/2013-awards/2013-television/|title=Motion Picture Sound Editors|date=2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231022633/http://mpse.org/golden-reel-awards/past-awards/2013-awards/2013-television/|archive-date=December 31, 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> Lifton won a Daytime Emmy as well as multiple Golden Reel Awards for his work on ''[[The Penguins of Madagascar]]'' (2008).<ref name="38th Daytime Emmy Award Winners">{{cite web|url=http://www.emmyonline.org/mediacenter/_pdf/day_1011_telecast_winners.pdf|title=38th Daytime Emmy Award Winners|date=June 19, 2011|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160319064759/http://emmyonline.org/mediacenter/_pdf/day_1011_telecast_winners.pdf|archivedate=March 19, 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2012, Lifton won a Daytime Emmy Award for his work on ''[[Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness]]'' (2011).<ref name="38th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Penguins of Madagascar">{{cite web|url=http://www.emmyonline.org/mediacenter/_pdf/day_1011_nominations.pdf|title=38th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Penguins of Madagascar|date=June 17, 2012|page=85|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110516013231/http://www.emmyonline.org/mediacenter/_pdf/day_1011_nominations.pdf|archivedate=May 16, 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness">{{cite web|url=http://cdn.emmyonline.org/day_39th_nominations.pdf|title=39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness|date=June 17, 2012|page=71|access-date=August 2, 2016|archive-date=October 10, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131010122909/http://www.emmyonline.org/mediacenter/daytime_39th_nominations.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Penguins of Madagascar">{{cite web|url=http://cdn.emmyonline.org/day_39th_nominations.pdf|title=39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Penguins of Madagascar|date=June 17, 2012|page=71|access-date=August 2, 2016|archive-date=October 10, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131010122909/http://www.emmyonline.org/mediacenter/daytime_39th_nominations.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – SpongeBob SquarePants">{{cite web|url=http://cdn.emmyonline.org/day_39th_nominations.pdf|title=39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – SpongeBob SquarePants|date=June 17, 2012|page=71|access-date=August 2, 2016|archive-date=October 10, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131010122909/http://www.emmyonline.org/mediacenter/daytime_39th_nominations.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="40th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – SpongeBob SquarePants">{{cite web|url=http://www.emmyonline.org/mediacenter/daytime_40th_nominations.html|title=40th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – SpongeBob SquarePants|date=June 17, 2012|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130503114448/http://www.emmyonline.org/mediacenter/daytime_40th_nominations.html|archivedate=May 3, 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="39th Daytime Emmy Award Winners">{{cite web|url=http://www.emmyonline.org/mediacenter/_pdf/day_1112_creative_arts_winners_v02.pdf|title=39th Daytime Emmy Award Winners|date=June 17, 2012|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703005239/http://www.emmyonline.org/mediacenter/_pdf/day_1112_creative_arts_winners_v02.pdf|archivedate=July 3, 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref>
⚫
=== Filmmaking ===
⚫
[[File:Jimmy-Lifton-Mark-Ruffalo-1994.jpg|thumb|Lifton with Mark Ruffalo on the set of Mirror, Mirror 2: Raven Dance]] Lifton's first film was the 1990 horror cult classic ''[[Mirror, Mirror (film)|Mirror, Mirror]]''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/movies/mirror-mirror-59146193/ |title=Mirror, Mirror |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1990}}</ref> starring [[Karen Black]], [[Yvonne De Carlo]], and [[William Sanderson]]. The film was directed by [[Marina Sargenti]] and was Lifton's first film that he produced. The 1994 sequel ''[[Mirror, Mirror 2: Raven Dance]]''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/movies/mirror-mirror-2-raven-dance-59146151/ |title=Mirror, Mirror II: Raven Dance |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1993}}</ref> starring [[Mark Ruffalo]], [[Sally Kellerman]], and [[Roddy McDowall]] was Lifton's first film he directed and he also co-wrote the script.


Lifton formed Triad Studios to produce two out of three feature films Lifton released in 1995, starting with ''Final Equinox'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/movies/the-final-equinox-59303060/ |title=The Final Equinox |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1996}}</ref> which was written and directed by [[Serge Rodnunsky]] and starred [[Joe Lara]] and [[David Warner (actor)|David Warner]]. Sci-fi Thriller ''Phoenix'' was Lifton's next film under Triad Studios, which Lifton co-wrote with Troy Cook. Troy directed the film and [[Stephen Nichols]], [[Brad Dourif]], and [[Billy Drago]] starred in it. After the two films Lifton closed down the studio and finished the year with the release of the third installment of the Mirror, Mirror series titled ''Mirror, Mirror 3: The Voyeur''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/movies/mirror-mirror-iii-59350064/ |title=Mirror, Mirror III: The Voyeur |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1995}}</ref> The film was directed by [[Rachel Gordon]] and Virginia Perfili, and was written by Steve Tymon, [[Mark Ruffalo]], [[Billy Drago]], [[David Naughton]], and Monique Parent starred in the film.
Lifton's Triad Studios released three films in 1995, starting with ''Final Equinox'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/movies/the-final-equinox-59303060/ |title=The Final Equinox |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1996}}</ref> which was written and directed by [[Serge Rodnunsky]] and starred [[Joe Lara]] and [[David Warner (actor)|David Warner]]. Next came sci-fi thriller ''Phoenix'', which Lifton co-wrote with Troy Cook. Troy directed the film, and [[Stephen Nichols]], [[Brad Dourif]], and [[Billy Drago]] starred in it. After the two films, Lifton closed down the studio and finished the year with the release of ''Mirror, Mirror 3: The Voyeur''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/movies/mirror-mirror-iii-59350064/ |title=Mirror, Mirror III: The Voyeur |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1995}}</ref> The film was directed by [[Rachel Gordon]] and Virginia Perfili, and was written by Steve Tymon, [[Mark Ruffalo]], [[Billy Drago]], [[David Naughton]]. Monique Parent starred in the film.


[[File:Jimmy Lifton on set.jpg|thumb|left|Lifton on set with a monster circa 1994]] In 1996, Lifton produced another three features, two of which he produced under the name James Ian Lifton. The first film was titled ''[[The Secret Agent Club]]'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/movies/the-secret-agent-club-59136737/ |title=The Secret Agent Club |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1995}}</ref> which was written by Rory Johnston and directed by John Murlowski. The film starred [[Hulk Hogan]], [[Barry Bostwick]], and [[Lesley-Anne Down]]. Next up was the Crime Drama Blood Money,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/tv/blood-money-59451745/credits/ |title=Blood Money |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1996}}</ref> which was directed by John Shepphird who co-wrote the script with Steve Jankowski. The film starred [[James Brolin]], [[Billy Drago]], Dean Tarrolly, and controversial starlet [[Traci Lords]]. Lifton ended the year with a low budget made-for-TV movie titled ''[[Assault on Dome 4]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/tv/assault-on-dome-4-59454349/ |title=Assault On Dome 4 |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1996}}</ref> The film was directed by Gilbert Po and written by Hesh Rephun. [[Bruce Campbell]], [[Joseph Culp]], and [[Jocelyn Seagrave]] starred in the flick.
[[File:Jimmy Lifton on set.jpg|thumb|left|Lifton on set with a monster circa 1994]] In 1996, Lifton produced another three features. ''[[The Secret Agent Club]]'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/movies/the-secret-agent-club-59136737/ |title=The Secret Agent Club |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1995}}</ref> was written by Rory Johnston and directed by John Murlowski. The film starred [[Hulk Hogan]], [[Barry Bostwick]], and [[Lesley-Anne Down]]. ''Blood Money'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/tv/blood-money-59451745/credits/ |title=Blood Money |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1996}}</ref> directed by John Shepphird, starred [[James Brolin]], [[Billy Drago]], Dean Tarrolly, and [[Traci Lords]]. Lifton ended the year with ''[[Assault on Dome 4]]'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/tv/assault-on-dome-4-59454349/ |title=Assault On Dome 4 |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1996}}</ref> a made-for-TV movie starring [[Bruce Campbell]], [[Joseph Culp]], and [[Jocelyn Seagrave]].


In 1997, Lifton produced two feature films. The first was a sci-fi thriller titled ''Firestorm'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/tv/firestorm-59479293/ |title=Firestorm |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1997}}</ref> which was co-directed by John Shepphird and Steve Jankowski, and written by Jimmy Lifton, Nick Spagnoli, and Paulette Victor-Lifton. [[John Savage (actor)|John Savage]], [[Bentley Mitchum]], [[Sherrie Rose]], and [[Joseph Culp]] starred in the film. The second film was a Children's Comedy titled ''Little Cobras: Operation Dalmatian''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/tv/little-cobras-operation-dalmation-59462871/credits/ |title=Little Cobras: Operation Dalmatian |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1999}}</ref> The film was directed by Paulette Victor-Lifton who co-wrote the script with Jimmy Lifton. Joey Aresco, [[Bill Capizzi]], and Jay Erwin starred in the film.
In 1997, Lifton produced two feature films. ''Firestorm'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/tv/firestorm-59479293/ |title=Firestorm |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1997}}</ref> co-directed by John Shepphird and Steve Jankowski, was written by Jimmy Lifton, Nick Spagnoli, and Paulette Victor-Lifton. [[John Savage (actor)|John Savage]], [[Bentley Mitchum]], [[Sherrie Rose]], and [[Joseph Culp]] starred in the film. The second film was a children's comedy titled ''Little Cobras: Operation Dalmatian''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/tv/little-cobras-operation-dalmation-59462871/credits/ |title=Little Cobras: Operation Dalmatian |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1999}}</ref>


In 1998, Lifton produced two feature films. The first was a film titled Mixed Blessings,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/movies/mixed-blessings-59241659/ |title=Mixed Blessings |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1997}}</ref> which was directed by Nadine Bass and written by Mary Hardcastle and Shelley Morhaim. The film starred [[Timothy Bottoms]], Rustam Branaman, Tom Bresnahan, and [[Kelly Curtis]]. The second film was a fun family film about a chimpanzee titled Monkey Business.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/tv/monkey-business-59466375/credits/ |title=Monkey Business |publisher=hollywood.com |date=2000}}</ref> The film was directed by Paulette Victor-Lifton and was written by Ted Fox, Jimmy Lifton, and Paulette Victor-Lifton. The film starred [[Shia LaBeouf]], [[Brenden Jefferson]], Kevin Cabriales, and Kathren Laurents. LaBeouf was awarded his [[SAG-AFTRA|SAG card]] because of his role in the film.
In 1998, Lifton produced two feature films. The first was a film titled ''Mixed Blessings'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/movies/mixed-blessings-59241659/ |title=Mixed Blessings |publisher=hollywood.com |date=1997}}</ref> which was directed by Nadine Bass and written by Mary Hardcastle and Shelley Morhaim. The film starred [[Timothy Bottoms]], Rustam Branaman, Tom Bresnahan, and [[Kelly Curtis]]. The second film was a fun family film about a chimpanzee titled ''Monkey Business''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywood.com/tv/monkey-business-59466375/credits/ |title=Monkey Business |publisher=hollywood.com |date=2000}}</ref> The film was directed by Paulette Victor-Lifton and was written by Ted Fox, Jimmy Lifton, and Paulette Victor-Lifton. The film starred [[Shia LaBeouf]], [[Brenden Jefferson]], Kevin Cabriales, and Kathren Laurents. LaBeouf was awarded his [[SAG-AFTRA|SAG card]] because of his role in the film.


In 2000, Lifton released his final film before taking a nearly 10-year hiatus from producing films to focus on growing Oracle Post. His final film before the break was the last of the Mirror, Mirror series of films titled ''Mirror, Mirror 4: Reflection''. The film was directed by Paulette Victor-Lifton and was co-written by [[Annette Cascone]], [[Gina Cascone]], and Paulette Victor-Lifton.
In 2000, Lifton released his final film before taking a nearly 10-year hiatus from producing films to focus on growing Oracle Post. His final film before the break was the last of the Mirror, Mirror series of films titled ''Mirror, Mirror 4: Reflection''. The film was directed by Paulette Victor-Lifton and was co-written by [[Annette Cascone]], [[Gina Cascone]], and Paulette Victor-Lifton.
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=== Other work ===
=== Other work ===
[[File:Jimmy Lifton on set of Time Piece.jpg|thumb|Lifton on the set of LIMS production Time Piece]]
[[File:Jimmy Lifton on set of Time Piece.jpg|thumb|Lifton on the set of LIMS production Time Piece]]
Lifton founded Unity Studios and the Lifton Institute of Media Skills between 2009 and 2010 in an effort to train out-of-work skilled laborers in the Detroit, Michigan area for the Movie and TV industry while turning [[Motown]] into a motion picture mecca capable of taking on Hollywood.<ref name="Unity Studios press release" /><ref name="Morgan">{{cite web|url=http://nypost.com/2014/11/07/sec-hits-detroit-suburb-with-fraud-charges-over-studio-plans/ |title=SEC hits Detroit suburb with fraud charges over studio plans|last=Morgan|first=Richard|work=NY Post |date=November 7, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/09/realestate/09film.html?_r=0 |title=In Michigan, Dream Factories Aim to Replace Auto Sites |publisher=NY Times |date=September 8, 2009}}</ref> The focus of the school was to take students' already learned skills and train them for relatable positions in the TV and Film industry. More than half of the Lifton Institute's inaugural class, which began in October 2009, reported finding work on at least one film, TV or music video production within 90 days of their January 2010 graduation.<ref name="Unity Studios press release" /> Unity Studios and The Lifton Institute closed its doors in 2010 when Governor [[Rick Snyder]] was elected and put harsh restrictions on the Michigan film incentive project. The film incentive project was fully shut down in 2015 when Gov. Snyder signed into law a bill to end all film related state funded programs.<ref name="Michigan Film Office press release">{{cite web|url=http://www.michiganfilmoffice.org/The-Film-Office/Press-Releases/Detail.aspx?id=5106 |title=Jim Burnstein Testimony to Senate Finance Committee|publisher=Michigan Film Office |type=Press release|date=November 4, 2011}}</ref><ref name="MLive">{{cite web|url=http://www.mlive.com/lansing-news/index.ssf/2015/07/gov_rick_snyder_signs_bill_to.html |title=Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder signs bill to kill film incentives|work=MLive|date=July 12, 2015}}</ref>
Lifton founded Unity Studios and the Lifton Institute of Media Skills between 2009 and 2010 in an effort to train out-of-work skilled laborers in the Detroit area for the movie and TV industry.<ref name="Unity Studios press release" /><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/09/realestate/09film.html?_r=0 |title=In Michigan, Dream Factories Aim to Replace Auto Sites |publisher=NY Times |date=September 8, 2009}}</ref> More than half of the Lifton Institute's inaugural class, which began in October 2009, reported finding work on at least one film, TV or music video production within 90 days of their graduation.<ref name="Unity Studios press release" /> Unity Studios and The Lifton Institute closed its doors in 2010 when Gov. [[Rick Snyder]] was elected and put harsh restrictions on the Michigan film incentive project.<ref name="Michigan Film Office press release">{{cite web|url=http://www.michiganfilmoffice.org/The-Film-Office/Press-Releases/Detail.aspx?id=5106 |title=Jim Burnstein Testimony to Senate Finance Committee|publisher=Michigan Film Office |type=Press release|date=November 4, 2011}}</ref><ref name="MLive">{{cite web|url=http://www.mlive.com/lansing-news/index.ssf/2015/07/gov_rick_snyder_signs_bill_to.html |title=Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder signs bill to kill film incentives|work=MLive|date=July 12, 2015}}</ref>


In 2015, Lifton opened the Lifton Institute of Media Arts and Sciences, or LIMS, in [[Santa Clarita Valley]], California. The focus of the school is to train crews for film, TV, and music productions. Growing up in Michigan, Lifton has a passion for the working class and veteran community. In 2016, LIMS launched their VET 50 program where 50 homeless veterans were provided with free training and assistance, transportation, food, and help with housing while in the LIMS program.<ref name="Signal SCV">{{cite web|url=http://www.signalscv.com/section/36/article/153521/|title=Santa Clarita-area studio offers job training for homeless vets|last=Holt|first=Jim |work=Signal SCV |date=June 19, 2016}}</ref> The veterans were also given hands on assistance with job placement post graduation. The VET 50 program has since expanded and a new program called VET 200 was created to provide free training for Post 9-11 veterans.<ref name="Signal SCV" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://scvnews.com/2016/06/14/lifton-institute-of-media-arts-sciences-launches-vet-50-program/ |title=SCV News |date=June 14, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wsiltv.com/story/32484322/military-veterans-face-large-challenges-post-service-lims-is-offering-a-solution-by-lining-up-career-opportunities-for-200-post-911-veterans |title=ABC Network – WSIL |date=July 19, 2016}}</ref>
In 2015, Lifton opened the Lifton Institute of Media Arts and Sciences in California's [[Santa Clarita Valley]]. The focus of the school is to train crews for film, TV, and music productions. In 2016, LIMS launched its VET 50 program where 50 homeless veterans were provided with free training and assistance, transportation, food, and help with housing while in the LIMS program.<ref name="Signal SCV">{{cite web|url=http://www.signalscv.com/section/36/article/153521/|title=Santa Clarita-area studio offers job training for homeless vets|last=Holt|first=Jim |work=Signal SCV |date=June 19, 2016}}</ref> The veterans were also given hands on assistance with job placement post graduation. The VET 50 program has since expanded and a new program called VET 200 was created to provide free training for 9-11 veterans.<ref name="Signal SCV" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://scvnews.com/2016/06/14/lifton-institute-of-media-arts-sciences-launches-vet-50-program/ |title=SCV News |date=June 14, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wsiltv.com/story/32484322/military-veterans-face-large-challenges-post-service-lims-is-offering-a-solution-by-lining-up-career-opportunities-for-200-post-911-veterans |title=ABC Network – WSIL |date=July 19, 2016}}</ref>

Lifton has been working close with work source centers to offer free training for the unemployed and underemployed. Through the [[Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act]], LIMS is able to work with the [[United States Department of Labor|Department of Labor]] to provide training and job placement in the Film, TV, and Music industry.


== Legal ==
== Legal ==
Unity Studios began as a [[public-private partnership]] (PPP), consisting of Lifton and a private real estate developer. The plan, announced in April 2009, called for Allen Park to use bond proceeds to buy land it would donate to the PPP. The private developer would then commit to begin construction on the 104-acre site, while Lifton managed the project and rounded up additional investors. The plan started unraveling the next month, however, when Allen Park faced a deficit in its fiscal budget for 2010. Lifton offered to cover the deficit — with the money being a "capital repayment", but shortly thereafter, Lifton was informed that the city was unable to work within a PPP framework and the contract signed would be null and void. This effectively collapsed the PPP, as the city no longer met requirements for its membership.<ref name="Morgan" /><ref name="Crain">{{cite web|url=http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20100613/SUB01/306139981/action-on-the-set-allen-parks-fight-for-studio-brings-rewards |title=Action on the set: Allen Park's fight for studio brings rewards|last=Duggan|first=Daniel|work=Crain's Detroit Business|publisher=Crain Communications|date=June 13, 2010}}</ref>
Unity Studios began as a [[public-private partnership]], consisting of Lifton and a private real estate developer. The plan, announced in April 2009, called for Allen Park to use bond proceeds to buy land it would donate to the PPP. The private developer would then commit to begin construction on the 104-acre site, while Lifton managed the project and rounded up additional investors. The plan started unraveling the next month, however, when Allen Park faced a deficit in its fiscal budget for 2010. Lifton offered to cover the deficit — with the money being a "capital repayment", but shortly thereafter, Lifton was informed that the city was unable to work within a PPP framework and the contract signed would be null and void. This effectively collapsed the PPP, as the city no longer met requirements for its membership.<ref name="Crain">{{cite web|url=http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20100613/SUB01/306139981/action-on-the-set-allen-parks-fight-for-studio-brings-rewards |title=Action on the set: Allen Park's fight for studio brings rewards|last=Duggan|first=Daniel|work=Crain's Detroit Business|publisher=Crain Communications|date=June 13, 2010}}</ref>


By August 2009, Lifton's plans were reduced to having him become a tenant instead of the property owner and lease a mere 100,000 square feet on the site to run the Lifton Institute for Media Skills.<ref name="Crain" /> According to the [[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission|SEC]], none of these changes appeared in November 2009 documents provided by Allen Park's mayoral staff aimed at Allen Park selling bonds. Two former civic leaders of Allen Park, Michigan, former Mayor Gary Burtka and former City Administrator Eric Waidelich, were levied with civil fraud charges by the SEC. The two — the first municipal officers ever hit with such charges — led a muni bond offering that gave investors incorrect information that misstated the city's financial condition. The SEC announced the fraud charges as it settled the suit against former Mayor Gary Burtka and former City Administrator Eric Waidelich.<ref name="Morgan" />
By August 2009, Lifton's plans were reduced to having him become a tenant instead of the property owner and lease a mere 100,000 square feet on the site to run the Lifton Institute for Media Skills.<ref name="Crain" /> According to the [[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission|SEC]], none of these changes appeared in November 2009 documents provided by Allen Park's mayoral staff aimed at Allen Park selling bonds. Two former civic leaders of Allen Park, Michigan, former Mayor Gary Burtka and former City Administrator Eric Waidelich, were levied with civil fraud charges by the SEC. The two — the first municipal officers ever hit with such charges — led a muni bond offering that gave investors incorrect information that misstated the city's financial condition. The SEC announced the fraud charges as it settled the suit against former Mayor Gary Burtka and former City Administrator Eric Waidelich.


In 2010, Lifton and a financial partner Emerald Entertainment purchased a 100,000 sq ft building in Detroit's historic Piquette area. This former auto factory facility was to be the cornerstone of the feature film development project for the downtown Detroit area.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/09/realestate/09film.html?_r=1 |title=In Michigan, Dream Factories Aim to Replace Auto Sites |publisher=New York Times |date=September 8, 2009}}</ref> The building remained in escrow awaiting a new Governor, [[Rick Snyder]]'s, stance on the Michigan Film incentive.<ref name="Morgan" /><ref name="Crain" />
In 2010, Lifton and a financial partner Emerald Entertainment purchased a 100,000 sq ft building in Detroit's historic Piquette area. This former auto factory facility was to be the cornerstone of the feature film development project for the downtown Detroit area.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/09/realestate/09film.html?_r=1 |title=In Michigan, Dream Factories Aim to Replace Auto Sites |work=New York Times |date=September 8, 2009}}</ref> The building remained in escrow awaiting a new Governor, [[Rick Snyder]]'s, stance on the Michigan Film incentive.<ref name="Crain" />


Governor Rick Snyder, who was elected in 2010, instituted new legislature eliminating the existing Michigan film incentive.<ref name="Michigan Film Office press release" /><ref name="MLive" /> Lifton and Emerald terminated their escrow and closed the school.
Governor Rick Snyder, who was elected in 2010, instituted new legislature eliminating the existing Michigan film incentive.<ref name="Michigan Film Office press release" /><ref name="MLive" /> Lifton and Emerald terminated their escrow and closed the school.
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== References ==
== References ==
{{Reflist|30em}}
{{Reflist}}


== External links ==
== External links ==
* {{IMDb name|0509864}}
* {{IMDb name|0509864}}

{{Authority control}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Lifton, Jimmy}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Lifton, Jimmy}}
[[Category:1955 births]]
[[Category:1955 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:American record producers]]
[[Category:Record producers from California]]
[[Category:People from Detroit]]
[[Category:Musicians from Detroit]]
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[[Category:People from Valencia, Santa Clarita, California]]

Latest revision as of 19:59, 7 December 2024

Jimmy Lifton
Lifton honoring veterans at the Lifton Institute of Media Arts & Sciences Vet 50 Gala
Born (1955-01-13) January 13, 1955 (age 69)
Detroit, Michigan, U.S.
Occupation(s)Musician, producer
Years active1978–present
Spouse
Paulette Victor-Lifton
​
​
(m. 1997; div. 2016)​

James Ian Lifton (born January 13, 1955), also known as Jimmy Lifton, is an American musician and film producer. Lifton's first major film production was the horror cult classic Mirror, Mirror (1990).[citation needed] Since then, he has produced 18 feature films, working with actors like Mark Ruffalo, Christina Ricci, Hulk Hogan, James Brolin, Traci Lords, and Bruce Campbell. Lifton co-founded a post-production company called Oracle Post in 1996. Oracle Post provides picture and sound needs for feature films and television, and has a client base that consists of companies like Fox, HBO, NBC, Universal, Disney, Nickelodeon, Paramount, Sony, Warner Brothers, and MTV.[1]

Early life

[edit]

Lifton was born in Detroit, Michigan.[2] He got an early start to his creative career, and at a young age he was graced with an apprenticeship to the Master Organist for the Detroit Symphony.[2][3] In 1972, Lifton started his first band, Merlin. Merlin's most notable performances were at the People's Ballroom, in Ann Arbor, where they opened for vocalist Mitch Ryder and The Knock Down Party Band,[4] and Bob Seger. Lifton attend The Royal Conservatory of Music[2][3] and earned a degree in piano. After graduation, Lifton moved to Boston to attend Berklee School of Music.[2][3] Soon he decided he had learned all that he could and moved back to Michigan to pursue a career in the music industry.

Career

[edit]

Music

[edit]
Lifton performing live circa 1980

Lifton started off his professional musical career at age 21, working as a studio session player for Detroit-based studios, most notably Don Davis's famed Motown recording studio Groovesville Productions[5][6] and Lorio Recording Studio. Lifton co-founded his own record label, Orphan Records, with Virginia Perfili in 1981, and released his first single, "I Want to Talk to You", in 1982. Lifton released his first EP, Untitled, in 1984. The EP consisted of songs "I Wanna Talk to You", "Of Mystics", "Soldier", "Silence", "Harmony", and "Time We Were on Our Way".[7]

In 1986, Lifton collaborated with Jimmy Miller and Steve Winwood to create a cover for their hit song "I'm a Man".[8] The music video featured live performance footage as well as dancers like August 1986 Playboy playmate Ava Fabian. The video was directed by David Golden, produced by Marina Sargenti, with John LeBlanc serving as cinematographer.[9][10] Lifton self promoted the video, driving the song to #23 on the Billboard charts,[11] which generated enough attention for Atlantic Records to take notice, leading them to buy the license and sign Lifton to a record deal.[12]

Lifton enjoyed the process of making videos and started exploring the relatively new world of music videos. Lifton worked extensively with Bruce Nazarian; together, they produced many 12" records that appeared on Orphan Records. Through his relationship with Bruce Nazarian, Lifton was hired in 1986 by Island Records to direct Millie Scott's music video for her song "Automatic". By involving himself with making music videos, Lifton became more and more interested in the art of filmmaking. By 1987, Lifton got his foot in the door of the film industry by working on the soundtrack of the feature film Kandyland.

Filmmaking

[edit]
Lifton with Mark Ruffalo on the set of Mirror, Mirror 2: Raven Dance

In 1990, Lifton released his first feature-length film, Mirror, Mirror, starring Karen Black, Yvonne De Carlo, and William Sanderson. The film was directed by Marina Sargenti. Lifton produced the film, composed the music, and worked on the mechanical effects.[13] The 1994 sequel, Mirror, Mirror 2: Raven Dance,[14] starring Mark Ruffalo, Sally Kellerman, and Roddy McDowall, was the first film Lifton directed and co-wrote.

He co-founded Oracle Post with Paulette Victor-Lifton in 1996. From 1996 until the late 2000s, Lifton contributed to many film and TV productions, most notably Blade: The Series, SpongeBob SquarePants, The Penguins of Madagascar, and Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness.[3][13][15] Oracle post was used as the ADR facility for film productions Righteous Kill (2008), Saw V, and Superman Returns (2006), and TV shows Curb Your Enthusiasm (1999–2004), NCIS (2005–2006), Punk'd (2005–2006), and The X's (2005–2006).[3][16]

Lifton won multiple Golden Reel Awards and was nominated for multiple Daytime Emmy Awards for his work on SpongeBob SquarePants.[17][18][19] Lifton won a Daytime Emmy as well as multiple Golden Reel Awards for his work on The Penguins of Madagascar (2008).[20] In 2012, Lifton won a Daytime Emmy Award for his work on Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness (2011).[21][22][23][24][25][26]

Lifton's Triad Studios released three films in 1995, starting with Final Equinox,[27] which was written and directed by Serge Rodnunsky and starred Joe Lara and David Warner. Next came sci-fi thriller Phoenix, which Lifton co-wrote with Troy Cook. Troy directed the film, and Stephen Nichols, Brad Dourif, and Billy Drago starred in it. After the two films, Lifton closed down the studio and finished the year with the release of Mirror, Mirror 3: The Voyeur.[28] The film was directed by Rachel Gordon and Virginia Perfili, and was written by Steve Tymon, Mark Ruffalo, Billy Drago, David Naughton. Monique Parent starred in the film.

Lifton on set with a monster circa 1994

In 1996, Lifton produced another three features. The Secret Agent Club,[29] was written by Rory Johnston and directed by John Murlowski. The film starred Hulk Hogan, Barry Bostwick, and Lesley-Anne Down. Blood Money,[30] directed by John Shepphird, starred James Brolin, Billy Drago, Dean Tarrolly, and Traci Lords. Lifton ended the year with Assault on Dome 4,[31] a made-for-TV movie starring Bruce Campbell, Joseph Culp, and Jocelyn Seagrave.

In 1997, Lifton produced two feature films. Firestorm,[32] co-directed by John Shepphird and Steve Jankowski, was written by Jimmy Lifton, Nick Spagnoli, and Paulette Victor-Lifton. John Savage, Bentley Mitchum, Sherrie Rose, and Joseph Culp starred in the film. The second film was a children's comedy titled Little Cobras: Operation Dalmatian.[33]

In 1998, Lifton produced two feature films. The first was a film titled Mixed Blessings,[34] which was directed by Nadine Bass and written by Mary Hardcastle and Shelley Morhaim. The film starred Timothy Bottoms, Rustam Branaman, Tom Bresnahan, and Kelly Curtis. The second film was a fun family film about a chimpanzee titled Monkey Business.[35] The film was directed by Paulette Victor-Lifton and was written by Ted Fox, Jimmy Lifton, and Paulette Victor-Lifton. The film starred Shia LaBeouf, Brenden Jefferson, Kevin Cabriales, and Kathren Laurents. LaBeouf was awarded his SAG card because of his role in the film.

In 2000, Lifton released his final film before taking a nearly 10-year hiatus from producing films to focus on growing Oracle Post. His final film before the break was the last of the Mirror, Mirror series of films titled Mirror, Mirror 4: Reflection. The film was directed by Paulette Victor-Lifton and was co-written by Annette Cascone, Gina Cascone, and Paulette Victor-Lifton.

Other work

[edit]
Lifton on the set of LIMS production Time Piece

Lifton founded Unity Studios and the Lifton Institute of Media Skills between 2009 and 2010 in an effort to train out-of-work skilled laborers in the Detroit area for the movie and TV industry.[16][36] More than half of the Lifton Institute's inaugural class, which began in October 2009, reported finding work on at least one film, TV or music video production within 90 days of their graduation.[16] Unity Studios and The Lifton Institute closed its doors in 2010 when Gov. Rick Snyder was elected and put harsh restrictions on the Michigan film incentive project.[37][38]

In 2015, Lifton opened the Lifton Institute of Media Arts and Sciences in California's Santa Clarita Valley. The focus of the school is to train crews for film, TV, and music productions. In 2016, LIMS launched its VET 50 program where 50 homeless veterans were provided with free training and assistance, transportation, food, and help with housing while in the LIMS program.[39] The veterans were also given hands on assistance with job placement post graduation. The VET 50 program has since expanded and a new program called VET 200 was created to provide free training for 9-11 veterans.[39][40][41]

[edit]

Unity Studios began as a public-private partnership, consisting of Lifton and a private real estate developer. The plan, announced in April 2009, called for Allen Park to use bond proceeds to buy land it would donate to the PPP. The private developer would then commit to begin construction on the 104-acre site, while Lifton managed the project and rounded up additional investors. The plan started unraveling the next month, however, when Allen Park faced a deficit in its fiscal budget for 2010. Lifton offered to cover the deficit — with the money being a "capital repayment", but shortly thereafter, Lifton was informed that the city was unable to work within a PPP framework and the contract signed would be null and void. This effectively collapsed the PPP, as the city no longer met requirements for its membership.[42]

By August 2009, Lifton's plans were reduced to having him become a tenant instead of the property owner and lease a mere 100,000 square feet on the site to run the Lifton Institute for Media Skills.[42] According to the SEC, none of these changes appeared in November 2009 documents provided by Allen Park's mayoral staff aimed at Allen Park selling bonds. Two former civic leaders of Allen Park, Michigan, former Mayor Gary Burtka and former City Administrator Eric Waidelich, were levied with civil fraud charges by the SEC. The two — the first municipal officers ever hit with such charges — led a muni bond offering that gave investors incorrect information that misstated the city's financial condition. The SEC announced the fraud charges as it settled the suit against former Mayor Gary Burtka and former City Administrator Eric Waidelich.

In 2010, Lifton and a financial partner Emerald Entertainment purchased a 100,000 sq ft building in Detroit's historic Piquette area. This former auto factory facility was to be the cornerstone of the feature film development project for the downtown Detroit area.[43] The building remained in escrow awaiting a new Governor, Rick Snyder's, stance on the Michigan Film incentive.[42]

Governor Rick Snyder, who was elected in 2010, instituted new legislature eliminating the existing Michigan film incentive.[37][38] Lifton and Emerald terminated their escrow and closed the school.

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Oracle Post Credits". June 17, 2012.
  2. ^ a b c d "Jimmy Lifton About". April 18, 2014 – via Facebook.
  3. ^ a b c d e "Celebrity Net Worths – Jimmy Lifton". October 19, 2015.
  4. ^ "Peoples Ballroom Act List".
  5. ^ "SoulfulDetroit – Groovesville Productions – Great Soul Music Recording Studios of Detroit".
  6. ^ "Discogs – Groovesville Music – profile and discography". Discogs.
  7. ^ "Jimmy Lifton Discography – Untitled". Discogs. 1984.
  8. ^ "Jimmy Lifton Discography – I'm A Man". Discogs. 1986.
  9. ^ "1986 Billboard Magazine". December 27, 1986. p. 59.
  10. ^ "1986 Billboard Magazine". December 20, 1986. p. 38.
  11. ^ "Billboard Magazine Chart". Billboard. 1986.
  12. ^ "Jimmy Lifton Discography – I'm A Man". Discogs. 1986.
  13. ^ a b "Jimmy Lifton". celebrities.prettyfamous.com.
  14. ^ "Mirror, Mirror II: Raven Dance". hollywood.com. 1993.
  15. ^ "hollywood.com – Jimmy Lifton".
  16. ^ a b c "Unity Studios and Lifton Institute for Media Skills Report Hiring Stats on First Graduating Class" (Press release). Unity Studios. May 25, 2010 – via PR News Wire.
  17. ^ "2008 Golden Reel Award Nominees: Television". 2008. Archived from the original on June 7, 2013.
  18. ^ "hollywoodreporter.com". The Hollywood Reporter. January 17, 2013.
  19. ^ "Motion Picture Sound Editors". 2013. Archived from the original on December 31, 2013.
  20. ^ "38th Daytime Emmy Award Winners" (PDF). June 19, 2011. Archived from the original (PDF) on March 19, 2016.
  21. ^ "38th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Penguins of Madagascar" (PDF). June 17, 2012. p. 85. Archived from the original (PDF) on May 16, 2011.
  22. ^ "39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness". June 17, 2012. p. 71. Archived from the original (PDF) on October 10, 2013. Retrieved August 2, 2016.
  23. ^ "39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – Penguins of Madagascar". June 17, 2012. p. 71. Archived from the original (PDF) on October 10, 2013. Retrieved August 2, 2016.
  24. ^ "39th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – SpongeBob SquarePants". June 17, 2012. p. 71. Archived from the original (PDF) on October 10, 2013. Retrieved August 2, 2016.
  25. ^ "40th Daytime Emmy Awards Nominations – SpongeBob SquarePants". June 17, 2012. Archived from the original on May 3, 2013.
  26. ^ "39th Daytime Emmy Award Winners" (PDF). June 17, 2012. Archived from the original (PDF) on July 3, 2015.
  27. ^ "The Final Equinox". hollywood.com. 1996.
  28. ^ "Mirror, Mirror III: The Voyeur". hollywood.com. 1995.
  29. ^ "The Secret Agent Club". hollywood.com. 1995.
  30. ^ "Blood Money". hollywood.com. 1996.
  31. ^ "Assault On Dome 4". hollywood.com. 1996.
  32. ^ "Firestorm". hollywood.com. 1997.
  33. ^ "Little Cobras: Operation Dalmatian". hollywood.com. 1999.
  34. ^ "Mixed Blessings". hollywood.com. 1997.
  35. ^ "Monkey Business". hollywood.com. 2000.
  36. ^ "In Michigan, Dream Factories Aim to Replace Auto Sites". NY Times. September 8, 2009.
  37. ^ a b "Jim Burnstein Testimony to Senate Finance Committee" (Press release). Michigan Film Office. November 4, 2011.
  38. ^ a b "Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder signs bill to kill film incentives". MLive. July 12, 2015.
  39. ^ a b Holt, Jim (June 19, 2016). "Santa Clarita-area studio offers job training for homeless vets". Signal SCV.
  40. ^ "SCV News". June 14, 2016.
  41. ^ "ABC Network – WSIL". July 19, 2016.
  42. ^ a b c Duggan, Daniel (June 13, 2010). "Action on the set: Allen Park's fight for studio brings rewards". Crain's Detroit Business. Crain Communications.
  43. ^ "In Michigan, Dream Factories Aim to Replace Auto Sites". New York Times. September 8, 2009.
[edit]
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