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Local filmmakers urge county support for impact‑driven productions, cite job and recovery benefits
Summary
Filmmakers told the Budget Committee that county funding or grant support for Maui‑based film and media projects could keep production dollars on island, support recovery jobs, and help reframe the island’s tourism brand; the presenters described one production budget near $200,000 and requested follow up on possible county funding paths.
Two Maui‑based filmmakers told the Budget, Finance and Economic Development Committee that modest county support for local film and media production could create jobs, keep creative work on island and help shape Maui’s tourism narrative.
"Supporting future local media production isn't just an investment in storytelling," said filmmaker Deandre Makakoa, who described leading a multi‑generational Lahaina production intended for film festivals and broader distribution. He said the production team chose editorial independence over convenience and raised roughly $200,000 from private donors to finish a film that, he said, is already having a community impact and has potential to reach global audiences.
Nut graf: Makakoa asked the county to consider a funding path—either line‑item support or grant mechanisms routed through existing nonprofit partners or the county film commissioner—that would keep production budgets on Maui, hire local crews, and help reposition the island’s tourism offerings toward visitors who come to "learn and connect" rather than only to recreate.
Makakoa said he had discussed the idea with the county film commissioner but had not yet obtained direct county funding; he offered to return with a formal proposal and budget if the council wanted to explore an appropriation. Committee members asked about scale: Makakoa said the film he discussed cost roughly $200,000 to produce. Councilmember inquiries explored typical grant administration options—using an umbrella nonprofit or county film office to manage awards or contracts—and suggested the filmmakers coordinate with the film commissioner and county grants staff.
Testifier Junior Nicola, who identifies as a filmmaker and videographer, urged the county to support young local film talent and flagged a pending state bill he said would create tax incentives for productions that hire at least 80 percent local labor.
Ending: Committee members encouraged the presenters to follow up with a written proposal and coordinate with the film commissioner and county grants staff; the council did not commit to a specific line item but acknowledged film and media projects are included in existing county economic development and cultural budgets.
