The film “I’m Not Ashamed,” based on the diaries of Columbine victim Rachel Scott, made its official movie premiere October 10 at the Belcourt Theater in Nashville. The film features Rachel’s original car, which became a nationwide memorial after the tragedy. Thanks to donated auto repairs from Derek Jameson and his team at the Maaco body shop in Antioch, the renovated vehicle will made its red carpet debut at the premiere.
Following the 1999 tragedy, the car spent most of its time unused at the home of Rachel’s mother, collecting routine damages over the years. Jameson and his crew repaired hail damage to the top surface, restored the left quarter panel and repainted the entire vehicle. The most challenging repair was tracking down a front left door that would fit the car, which Jameson was able to locate after a rigorous search. The vehicle played a prominent role in the film “I’m Not Ashamed” and made its first public appearance in 17 years at the premiere.
“This car is extremely cherished, so when Rachel’s mother asked for the car to be renovated, we needed to find a trusted auto body shop we could depend on for such a delicate project. Derek Jameson and his team at Maaco went above and beyond to restore this car,” said Benny Proffitt, producer of “I’m Not Ashamed” and founder of First Priority Global. “Not only did Derek donate the repairs to Rachel’s family, but he made an incredible effort to find auto parts nearly 30-years-old to replace on the vehicle. The final product looks unbelievable, and it was a highlight on the red carpet.”
Rachel Scott’s red 1988 Acura Legend was pictured on the cover of Time magazine, as an iconic symbol of the community coming together in solidarity after the tragedy. The flower-covered memorial for grieving students remained in the high school parking lot for weeks before returning to Rachel’s home. According to Proffitt, the car is scheduled to be featured in several museums after the premiere before being returned to Rachel’s mother.
“We are honored to receive the opportunity to restore this special car for Rachel, her family and all the people affected by this tragedy. At Maaco, we take pride in our work, and the body shop technicians went to great lengths to ensure this vehicle was restored to its natural beauty,” said Jameson. “As a Maaco franchisee, the opportunity to use our talents and expertise to participate in such a meaningful repair in honor of Rachel and her family is extremely rewarding.”
“I’m Not Ashamed” was released nationwide on October 21. For more information about the movie, please visit: www.imnotashamedfilm.com. For more information about Maaco Franchising please visit: www.maacofranchise.com.
