On this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with acclaimed production designer Toni Barton, whose latest project, Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, reimagines the gritty glamour of 1970s Atlanta. Barton walks us through the process of recreating a city that still lives in the memory of many locals—working against time, budget, and historical accuracy to bring over 30 sets to life across four soundstages and multiple real-world locations.
We dive into how Barton used color storytelling to mirror character arcs, the architectural magic behind the Hyatt Regency’s iconic penthouse suite, and the haunting authenticity of the Dolphin Club. From civil rights-era echoes to design under pressure, this is a masterclass in immersive world-building.
