Watch Jason Brown's short animated film tribute to his grandfather, James Brown.

Eighteen-year-old Jason Brown has spent his life in the shadow of his grandfather, "the late, great James Brown." As a recent graduate of Silver Bluff High School, though, Jason is ready to blaze his own trail and make a name for himself.

Although his grandfather was a world-famous musician, and his mother, Deanna Brown, spent five years as host for the Hot Ticket Show on television station WRDW, Jason finds his niche behind the scenes.

"I hope to become a successful film director/producer," Jason said. "And I would love to work on movies, music videos, animations and commercials."

Jason already has produced a successful short animated film that was shown in Los Angeles at the Hollywood Black Film Festival.

The crowd response was enough to push Jason to continue to develop his skill. In September, he will attend Savannah College of Art and Design on a scholarship. He plans to major in film production and minor in animation.

Anyone wanting to get into the film business, Jason said, needs to work hard and be patient.

"Even if it is something small, it can be stressful and very time-consuming," he said.

Getting into film is also about whom you know.

"Network yourself," Jason said.

For him, networking wasn't the most difficult element of his work. Obviously, being the grandson of the Godfather of Soul can never be a hindrance to a budding career in the entertainment industry.

"I believe my grandfather's legacy can most definitely help me with my future in film," Jason said. "(Someone who) works in the film industry could very well be a big fan of my grandfather's and decide to help me with my filming or animation future."

Jason is working as an intern for Mustard Seed Video and Productions.

Aside from making waves in the entertainment industry, Jason is a normal teen who enjoys music and history and being around people. He is also active in his church, Carpentersville Baptist, where he is an usher and where James Brown was laid to rest.

Jason attributes his success to the influential people around him, including his mother, grandfather and high school art teacher, Andrea Spano.

"I would have given up if it weren't for (them)."

Lauren Kellems is a recent graduate of Silver Bluff High School.