MOANA Sets Sail on Animated Adventure
KONG GOES APE ON OAHU
Kauai
SPECIAL FOCUS
Kauai Film Looks Toward the Future
HIFF PREVIEW 35 Y Years O Off Fi Film il Talent/Casting SPOTLIGHT DRONES - Elevating Island Production
Photo by Bruce Omori/ExtremeExposure.com
G E T
T H E
D E TA I L S
AT
H A W A I I F I L M O F F I C E . C O M
2 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
F I L M
O F F I C E S
H A W A I I A N
O F
T H E
I S L A N D S
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 3
CONTENTS [[[ LE[EMM½PQERHZMHIS GSQ [[[ LE[EMM½PQ GSQ PUBLISHER
James Baker
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Katie Sauro ksauro@media-inc.com SALES MANAGER
Katie Higgins
SALES EXECUTIVES
Eric Iles GENERAL MANAGER
John Rusnak
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Sonjia Kells
7
DESIGNERS
At D23 Expo, Disney revealed details about its upcoming animated adventure, Moana, which will star Oahu native Auli’i Cravalho in the title role. Photo courtesy of Disney
7 Moana Sets Sail for 2016 Release
27 Talking Talent in the Islands
11 KONG Goes Ape on Oahu
29 In Demand on Kauai
13 Discovery Channel’s 4EGM½G ;EVVMSVW Heads to Hawaii 15 HIFF Celebrates 35 Years of Film and Fun 17 The Pink Palace and its Long History in Film and Television 20 Kauai Film Looks Toward the Future 23 Aloha to Kauai’s “Aloha Vet” 24 Hawaii Aerial Video: Ele vating Island Production 25 Tech Hub Coming to the Garden Isle 4 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
31 Scouting in Paradise 35 Big Island Filmmakers Help Bring Ko’olau to the Big Screen 36 Zac Efron, Anna Kendrick Star in Oahu-Shot Comedy 37 Hawaii Thriller Camino Premieres 39 ADR: Hire Local! 40 Talent Agency Spotlight 42 Hawaii’s Got Talent! 44 Modeling & Talent Agencies List 46 Casting Directors List
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
Ciara Pickering, Sam Rockwell, 0M^ ;IMGOYQ WEBMASTER
Jon Hines
OFFICE MANAGER/ACCOUNTING
Audra Higgins
INFORMATION SERVICES MANAGER
Lois Sanborn
ON THE COVER
Environmental documentary Aina: That Which Feeds Us ½PQW SR /EYEM 8LI MWPERH MW currently undertaking projects that will strengthen and grow the creative industries’ economy. Photo by Angela Tillson.
MEDIA INDEX PUBLISHING GROUP (800) 332-1736 media@media-inc.com
Display Advertising: Call Media Index Publishing Group for a current rate card. Discounts for frequency advertising. All submitted materials become the property of Media Index Publishing Group and will not be returned. Subscriptions, call (800) 3321736 for information and rates. Copyright © 2015 Media Index Publishing Group. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be used for solicitation or copied by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying or recording by any information storage or retrieval system, without the express written permission of the publisher. PRINTED IN THE USA.
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 5
6 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
SETS SAIL FOR 2016 RELEASE A look at the main characters (teenage heroine Moana and the demi-god Maui) from the upcoming Disney film.
Polynesian dancers perform as part of the Moana presentation at the D23 Expo.
The Rock, who voices the character of Maui, addresses the crowd. Also pictured are (left to right) Ron Clements, John Musker and Osnat Shurer.
Photos courtesy of Disney & D23 Expo 2015
A
t Disney’s annual D23 Expo in August, some new details were released about the forthcoming animated film Moana.
Directors John Musker and Ron Clements, along with producer Osnat Shurer, revealed the dazzling first footage from the movie and presented a few short proof of concept clips to an eager audience. They also revealed plans for the film’s inspired music and the extraordinary team behind it—Tony winner Lin-Manuel Miranda, Grammy-winning composer Mark Mancina, and Opetaia Foa’i, founder and lead singer of the world music award-winning band Te Vaka. The presentation was followed by a musical performance from Te Vaka, accompanied by Polynesian dancers. Although the film is set in the South Pacific and not Hawaii, it is steeped in Hawaiian mythology. Moana tells the story of a teenage girl (voiced by 14-year-old Oahu native Auli’i Cravalho) as she sets sail in search of a fabled island. During her journey she teams up with the legendary demi-god Maui (voiced by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson) to traverse the open ocean on a voyage where they will encounter enormous sea creatures, breathtaking underworlds and ancient folklore. It was reported in People Magazine and elsewhere that Cravalho was spotted by a Hawaii casting director during a charity singing competition in Oahu, and then whisked to Los Angeles to audition. Moana casting director Rachel Sutton said that Cravalho was the last of hundreds of young actresses to audition. “Auli’i demonstrated a certain fearlessness in her auditions and call-backs,” said director John Musker in a statement. “She has a playful, mischievous wit. She can project vulnerability, she
Auli’i Cravalho from Oahu landed the starring role of Moana.
The Rock gets pumped up.
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 7
Te Vaka performs during the Moana presentation, accompanied by Polynesian dancers.
doesn’t seem intimidated at all by the challenges ahead, and her Polynesian background has helped shape her connection to family, hard work and music. These are all qualities she shares with Moana.” Although originally slated for a 2018 release, Moana has been bumped up two years to November 23, 2016. HFV
8 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 9
10 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
KONG GOES APE ON OAHU H
e’s back and ready to roar! That’s right, the legendary King Kong has returned to Hawaii for the feature film Kong: Skull Island, set for release in March 2017.
The last time the King of the Apes wreaked havoc in the islands was in the 1976 film King Kong, starring Jeff Bridges and Jessica Lange, which filmed primarily on Kauai. This time it’s Oahu that will bear the brunt of his wrath. Kong: Skull Island, a Legendary Pictures/Warner Bros. co-production, began filming on Oahu in mid-October and will remain on island through the end of the year. This will be the state’s biggest film project of 2015. According to a Honolulu Star-Advertiser interview with Hawaii Film Commissioner Donne Dawson, Kong will have around 1,500 local hires, including production crew, background extras and support services. Kong: Skull Island will be centered on King Kong’s origins. Although plot details have not yet been released, it has been reported that the film will follow a team of explorers that ventures deep inside the home of King Kong—the treacherous, primordial Skull Island. Directed by Jordan Vogt-Roberts, Kong stars Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L. Jackson, Brie Larson and John Goodman. The film marks the latest collaboration between Legendary Pictures and Warner Bros., which had major success with the 2014 reinvention of Godzilla, filmed in part on Oahu. In fact, the two companies announced earlier this fall that they will be creating an epic, new shared cinematic franchise that will feature King Kong, Godzilla, and other mythical monsters. The initial trio of films will be 2017’s Kong: Skull Island, Godzilla 2 in 2018 and then Godzilla vs. Kong, arriving in theaters in 2020. HFV
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 11
12 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
DISCOVERY CHANNEL’S PACIFIC WARRIORS HEADS TO HAWAII Photo courtesy of Discovery Channel
B
eneath the pristine waters of Hawaii, ancient volcanoes have forged steep underwater cliffs, resulting in the best deep-sea fishing in the world. For centuries, generations of Hawaiians have caught these monster fish from small, hand-made canoes, using nothing more than a fishing pole and their bare hands. Now, a rare breed of men and women—armed with just a sea kayak—are re-inventing this ancient art, and risking their lives to catch 100-plus-pound fish.
One fresh catch can reel in $1,500 or more; but big rewards bring stiff competition. Pacific Warriors, an all-new series that premiered in October on the Discovery Channel, follows these brave adventurers who will stop at nothing to bring in their prize. The series follows seven teams as they train and battle it out on the rough waters. Using primitive means, the fearless fishermen and women are regularly taken on what they call “Hawaiian Sleigh Rides,” which occur when they hook monster fish that drag them out to sea—sometimes as much as 10 miles or more. They also fend off sharks regularly, deeming them “tax men,” which are looking for an easy meal. Pacific Warriors is produced for Discovery Channel by Original Media. For Original Media, executive producers are Glenda Hersh, Steven Weinstock, Lisa Bloch, Peter Goetz, Kelly Hefner and Bryan Severance. For Discovery Channel, executive producers are Joseph Schneier and Christo Doyle. To learn more, go to www.discovery.com. HFV
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 13
International Productions Locations & Production Management Print • Video • Film
P.O. Box 10799 • Honolulu, HI 96816 Ph: (808) 737-6320 • Em: locations@hawaii.rr.com www.hawaiilocations.com 14 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
HIFF CELEBRATES 35 YEARS OF FILM AND FUN
T
he Hawaii International Film Festival (HIFF) will mark its 35th anniversary this November with special screenings, events and celebrity guests. The event will run November 12-22.
“The festival is held over two weekends, so if you miss the first weekend you can always come back the second,” said Grace Jo, Director of Sponsorship & Events. The festival kicks off with the Opening Night screening of The Throne from South Korean director Lee Joon-Ik. The Closing Night film is the period piece A Tale of Three Cities from China’s Mabel Cheung, and the Centerpiece film is Carol, starring Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara, the latter of whom won Best Actress at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. “Carol is being released in November and it’s a strong Oscar contender, so we’re really excited about the premiere at HIFF,” said Jo. In addition to these films, HIFF is perennially dedicated to providing attendees with a wide range of international films and events, and this year is no exception, with films from the Pacific Rim, Europe, and more. “We’ll have a big Japanese Cinema section again this year, and will have some big stars from Japan, as well,” said Jo. “We have a French film that just won the Grand Prize at the Cannes Film Festival in our European Cinema section. And we’ll have great films from Korea and China, as well.”
a quick Q&A after the Spellbound screening,” she said. Hitchcock’s granddaughters will discuss his work and his life outside of the film set. Also this year, HIFF is launching a new conference, the Asia Pacific Entertainment Finance Forum, to be held November 18-20 at the Modern Honolulu. “We’re inviting speakers in the film and entertainment industry around the world,” said Jo. “They’ll talk about production in Hawaii, new distribution channels that are opening up in the industry—what we’re getting ready for in terms of the business side of entertainment. We’ll have IT and tech venture companies from Silicon Valley to attend and speak at the conference, as well.” HFV For ticket information and a full schedule, visit www.hiff.org.
“Made In Hawaii” Spotlight HIFF showcases a number of feature-length and short films made in Hawaii. Here’s a look at this year’s selections: FEATURES Black & White: The Early Years of Dan Inouye Heather Giugni 2015 | 45 min. A Candle Lights the Heart Shinji Kondo 2014 | 85 min. Dear Thalia Rex Moribe 2015 | 78 min. Midori in Hawaii John Hill 2015 | 84 min. Pali Road Jonathan Lim 2015 | 95 min. Throuple Phillips Payson, Diego Siragna 2015 | 88 min. SHORTS
Japanese actress Ryoko Hirosue (Departures, Wasabi) and South Korean actor and film director Ha Jung-woo (The Chaser, Chronicle of a Blood Merchant) are among the stars scheduled to attend. “Those two stars will also be attending our black-tie awards gala at Halekulani on Sunday, November 15,” added Jo. In addition to celebrity guests, the awards gala will also feature the announcement of the cash prize winners of Best Feature Film and Best Documentary Feature Film. Other HIFF programming this year includes an Alfred Hitchcock Spotlight, which will feature a screening of Spellbound at Ward Village Courtyard Cinema on Thursday, November 19, and a screening of the 2015 documentary Hitchcock/Truffaut at the Dole Cannery on November 21. Jo noted that because it’s Spellbound’s 70th anniversary this year and the centennial anniversary of Hitchcock’s birth, HIFF will have special guests in attendance. “We’ll have two granddaughters of Hitchcock at the festival and
Apart Peter Sizelove 2015 | 8 min. Brother Cousin Kristian House 2015 | 8 min. The Herbert Yanamura Story Alexander Bocchieri, Stacey Hayashi 2015 | 25 min. High Rider Bradley Tangonan 2015 | 7 min. Po Timothy Edwards 2014 | 20 min. A Sakada Story Maribel Apuya 2015 | 9 min. The Surrender Call Alexander Bocchieri 2015 | 15 min. The Third Love Michael Tanji 2014 | 4 min. hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 15
16 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
THE PINK PALACE AND ITS LONG HISTORY IN FILM AND TELEVISION
BY BRIAN M. SOBEL Guest Columnist Photos courtesy of The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort
I
n 1927, the legendary “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” known more formally as The Royal Hawaiian Hotel, opened to great fanfare, including a black-tie party with over 1,200 guests. At the time it was one of only two hotels on Waikiki Beach, the other being the Moana Surfrider that opened in 1901. The Royal Hawaiian was built on land that was once a playground for King Kamehameha I in the days following his conquest of Oahu, and almost immediately began attracting celebrities from the mainland and film crews to shoot scenes with the hotel and its surroundings as a backdrop. The Royal and its attraction for filming purposes is owing to legacy and time in Hawaii, but also to its unique Spanish-Moorish style and pink color that stands out on Waikiki Beach. DeSoto Brown, historian at the Bishop Museum, the chief repository of all things Hawaiiana, says, “The Royal is the central historic hotel in Waikiki and in an idealized way it epitomizes the golden era of Waikiki and tourism in Hawaii.” Brown goes on to say, “The pink color of the hotel has always been a highlight and adds to its fame. In motion pictures and television it stands out as something that is recognizable to viewers, especially those who have visited Hawaii.” Cheryl Williams, general manager of The Royal Hawaiian, says the emergence of the hotel as a major filming and vacation location for the entertainment industry owes its status to the fact that, “The Royal ushered in a new standard of luxury on Waikiki Beach and became a favorite of many celebrities such as Shirley Temple, as well as film productions featuring the likes of Bing Crosby, Spencer Tracy hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 17
and more recent ones like Mad Men.” Interest by Hollywood in the early years not only included the motion picture industry, but a vast radio audience as well, a time when listeners were taken on a journey in their mind’s eye as programs such as Hawaii Calls, with host Webley Edwards, dramatically started each program with “The sound of the waves on the beach at Waikiki,” as the listener heard the surf behind Edwards. The show at the height of its popularity was running on 750 radio stations around the world. Hawaiian performers and the music of the Islands became so well known that Hollywood wanted and needed to be in the mix. Harry Owens, the leader of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel Orchestra, helped catapult Hawaii into the consciousness of many when he wrote the now famous song, “Sweet Leilani,” which was quickly discovered by Bing Crosby. Crosby sang the number in the film Waikiki Wedding. The song was such a hit that it would win a 1938 Academy Award for Best Song. The popularity of Hawaii was
being driven by motion pictures and its seemingly exotic location, as well, given that at the time it was the Territory of Hawaii, before achieving statehood in 1959. Over the years, the hotel has accommodated film crews of one stripe or another, including independent productions, but one could argue the most impactful production from a tourist-recognition point of view is the appearances of Hawaii and often the hotel on both the original version of the Hawaii Five-0 series that ran from 1968-1980, and the current series that debuted in 2010 and is still running strong. One of the most popular franchises in American television history, scores of scenes have been filmed at the hotel by the Hawaii Five-0 franchise since 1968, often starring the ever-present Jack Lord as Detective Steve McGarrett. Lord, who perhaps did more to popularize Hawaii through the Hawaii Five-0 series than any other personality, was very familiar with the hotel as a perfect Hawaii television backdrop. The popularity continues, including again last December when the current Hawaii Five-0 series 18 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
utilized the Mai Tai Bar for a scene with actor Scott Caan, who plays Detective Danny “Danno” Williams. Similarly, in 2014, Season 5, Episode 8 of the series, the hotel is used as a backdrop for a wedding between the aunt of Lieutenant Commander Steve McGarrett (Alex O’Loughlin), played by the actress and comedienne Carol Burnett, and her boyfriend played by the singer Frankie Valli. Since its earliest days as a Hollywood favorite, the hotel has not only hosted film crews, but also celebrities including Shirley Temple, Clark Gable, George Burns, Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra, along with Natalie Wood and Robert Wagner, and the list goes on. It also includes two presidents, Franklin Roosevelt, who first visited the hotel in 1934, and Lyndon Johnson. Even Joe DiMaggio and Marilyn Monroe stayed at the hotel, as did the well-known Olympian and surfing legend Duke Kahanamoku, who also attracted his Hollywood friends to the Islands. DeSoto Brown, in reviewing the history of The Royal Hawaiian as a Hollywood backdrop, also says, “The early motion pictures had few options when shooting in Hawaii and The Royal Hawaiian was better than, say, the Moana, because it had a much better layout to shoot, with lots of greenery and the look of Hawaii. Later, the hotel was utilized because it continued to have things to offer and worked well with the industry.” In looking around the hotel it is hard to find a space that has not appeared in a motion picture or television show over the years. The hotel had a starring role as early as 1931 when the Charlie Chan film, The Black Camel, utilized the hotel as a backdrop. In 1952, John Wayne filmed Big Jim McLain in Hawaii and prominently used the lobby of the hotel. Later productions including Gidget Goes Hawaiian, released in 1961, features the beach at the hotel, along with an on-site luau. Many television shows besides Hawaii Five-0 have also used The Royal Hawaiian in their productions. The list includes Charlie’s Angels, Eight is Enough, Murder She Wrote, and in 2013, the very popular Mad Men series filmed scenes of the Season 6 opening episode at the hotel. Two years ago the Today show, with hosts Matt Lauer, Savannah Guthrie, Natalie Morales and Al Roker, utilized The Royal Hawaiian as a part of their “Great American Adventure” series. Keeping the hotel a popular location for the filming of motion pictures and television shows requires a healthy balance of respect for the hotel and its guests and the desire to showcase one of the great backdrops of Hawaii or any other film location. Cheryl Williams says, “We’re proud to say the allure and glamour of the resort naturally shine in film productions.” HFV Brian Sobel is a frequent contributor to magazines and newspapers and the author of two books and an anthology. He often appears on radio and television. Contact him at brian@sobelcommunications.com.
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 19
KAUAI FILM LOOKS TOWARD THE FUTURE Photos courtesy of County of Kauai
T
he County of Kauai’s Office of Economic Development (OED) recently completed a reorganization of the department, including the Film Office, in order to strengthen and grow the creative industries’ economy on the Garden Isle and keep up with the changes in the economic landscape. Randy Francisco, who previously served as president of the Kauai Chamber of Commerce for 10 years, was appointed to lead the Film Office in an expanded role as the creative industries and small business coordinator. Also on the team are OED specialists Melissia Sugai and Therilyn-Martin Haumea. Thanks in large part to blockbusters such as Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides and Jurassic World, Kauai’s incredible vistas—from the mountains to lush vegetation and mixed climates such as the dry leeward coast and windward side of the island—continue to be featured in a wide variety of film, film-related, trade and social media projects. Over the last three years, more than $8.3 million was generated by Kauai’s creative industries, which include film, television shows/ series, commercial/print ads, music videos,
documentaries, travel, sports and digital/ Internet. The majority of film production on Kauai involved television shows/series, commercials/print ads and documentaries. There were 141 productions on the Garden Isle during this period with 805 days of filming. This provided great employment opportunities for Kauai’s residents. In 2013, 123 out of 366, or 34 percent, of film-related jobs went to residents. Similarly, in 2014, residents were hired for 129 out of 382, or 34 percent, of film-related projects. In August of this year, a Kauai Film Industry Meet & Greet event was held that brought together industry professionals and the Kauai Film Office team. Mayor Ber-
Nestea Commercial shot in 2014.
Aloha Vet reality show on Nat Geo (National Geographic) shot for four months on Kauai in 2014. 20 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
nard Carvalho, Jr. and Office of Economic Development Director George Costa welcomed them, expressed their appreciation for the work the industry professionals do and shared their visions for the industry. A presentation on the Revocable Film Permit form and processing was done by County Attorney Mauna Kea Trask. Film Commissioner Francisco provided an update on the county’s marketing and advertising program, discussed county policies such as the drone policy, and shared his plans for improving communications with industry professionals. An exciting project that’s in the works is the establishment of the Kauai Creative
Sports Illustrated 2015 Swimsuit Issue shot at Waimea Canyon.
Technology Center, which will provide a world-class multipurpose facility for training, filming, editing, performances, lectures, meetings and more. The aim of the project is to help Kauai residents, especially the county’s youth, with the opportunity to pursue a career in the creative technology field and provide industry professionals with a convenient and accessible facility where they can do pre- and post-production work. Most importantly, the Center will help to grow the technology sector and diversify Kauai’s economy. Read more on page 25. HFV For more information, visit www.filmkauai.com.
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 21
22 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
ALOHA TO KAUAI’S
“ALOHA VET” BY SUE KANOHO Executive Director, Kauai Visitors Bureau Photos by Mario Perez, courtesy of Shine America
T
omorrow is never promised, and living life to the fullest is a great philosophy to follow. Dr. Scott Sims, recently known to the world as the “Aloha Vet,” certainly lived a very full life with great appreciation for each and every day.
Dr. Sims was known locally as the “Barefoot Vet” before he was discovered by Nat Geo Wild’s reality show, Aloha Vet. Filming on Kauai took place over a four-month period, giving local production crews some nice work. There was no need for story ideas or outlines; just following Dr. Sims around Kauai doing what he does best gave animal lovers nationwide a glimpse into an extremely dedicated and wonderfully unique veterinarian. Not only a 24/7 veterinarian for pets large and small, Dr. Sims was a pilot who flew his own small plane within the Hawaiian islands to tend to his clients. During a special dinner that was, in fact, honoring Dr. Sims with a Humanitarian Award, he received a call that a horse on Kauai was in serious need of a vet right away. Instead of staying and enjoying the dinner and accolades, Dr. Sims took off early to help the ill horse. I have heard numerous stories of this same kind of “all hours” service given to the many animals of Kauai. A house call at 10pm was not out of the question for any animal in need. The first season of Nat Geo Wild’s Aloha Vet was so well received that a second season was underway, when Dr. Sims received the tragic news he had been diagnosed with advanced bladder cancer. With his amazing attitude toward life came an even more amazing attitude toward his impending death. Dr. Sims said he was actually grateful that he knew how he would be leaving this earth, and that he had time to say his goodbyes to family and friends. There are a lot of reality shows in production, but the TV show Aloha Vet gave all of us a chance to see an incredible veterinarian in action, doing what he loved. It was real, all of it. I heard that Dr.
Sims received fan mail from all over the U.S., so his reach has been far and wide thanks to Nat Geo Wild’s show. In fact, one can still see the first season online at http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/ wild/aloha-vet/, which makes every episode extra special since we lost Dr. Sims on July 25, 2015. Mahalo nui loa to Shine America/Nat Geo Wild’s Aloha Vet show for sharing with the world, if only for a short period of time, how one man made such a difference for so many. We will miss you, Dr. Scott Sims, our Barefoot/Aloha Vet. HFV
Aloha Vet films scenes on Kauai.
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 23
Kauai
SPECIAL FOCUS
HAWAII AERIAL VIDEO: Elevating
Island Production
A
erial photography has long been a coveted production tool, enhancing films, commercials and episodic television series with impressive shots of never-before-seen views. This is especially important in the Hawaiian Islands, where picture-perfect shots of pristine beaches and beautiful landscapes help drive tourism and production dollars to the state. In the past, production companies weren’t always able to afford the necessary equipment—whether it was renting an aircraft and pilot, or a camera crane set-up—to capture these shots. Thus ushered in the accelerating use of drones in film production. Drones are not only more cost-effective than most other aerial photography equipment, but they are more flexible, says Adam Orens with Hawaii Aerial Video - FAA Certified Drone Operator. “Changing the angle and perspective of the shot can be done with the movement of the stick,” he explains. “Shots that used to be virtually impossible or too expensive to set up are now within reach with less dents in the budget. This has been enhanced even more with our new rig that allows shooting up by mounting the camera and gimbal on top of the copter.” Hawaii Aerial Video, based on Kauai, was a natural extension of Orens’ childhood interest in photography and videography. “I grew up in the darkroom,” he says. “My father was an avid photographer, which led me to working with video eventually as a teen. I had a roommate that was a producer for independent films and got my first experience on the set working for him. In my twenties, I became a pilot and eventually made the decision to combine
24 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
both photography and piloting into working with unmanned aerial systems, aka drones.” While FAA regulations and permit processes for drone usage may make some potential clients hesitant—What’s legal? What’s not?—Orens says that “there really is no downside to speak of.” “Planning ahead is most important,” he explains. “There are locations that require time (months, in some cases) to acquire permission from the FAA to fly a drone above. These can be rural locations or next door to an airport and should be investigated before any decisions are made. Consulting your drone operator can save a lot of unnecessary stress in last-minute changes. Consideration should be given during the initial location scouting if aerial filming is planning to be used.” Hawaii Aerial Video works all over the state, according to Orens, and recently provided services to the feature film Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates, which wrapped on Oahu in August, and Titan, which is currently in production. Orens adds, “Kauai is a great place to live and the most beautiful place on Earth... but I am biased. We would love to shoot here more but find ourselves in hotels for the most part. The Kauai Film Office is working on attracting more productions with incentives and other programs.” HFV For more information about Hawaii Aerial Video, visit www.hawaiiaerialvideo.com.
TECH HUB COMING TO
Kauai THE GARDEN ISLE
SPECIAL FOCUS
Photo courtesy of Kauai Creative Technology Center
K
auai’s production industry will soon get a boost from a state-of-the-art creative technology facility that aims to “amplify creativity, catalyze economic growth and build a stronger community.”
The Kauai Creative Technology Center (KCTC) is envisioned as a professional-grade, all-purpose space for digital media, innovation and learning. It will be the only professional film studio and post-production facility on Kauai, and will boast the necessary facilities, equipment, and technical training and support for projects of all types, sizes and budgets. A project of the Kauai Economic Development Board, the KCTC is expected to break ground in the fall of 2017 and open by the end of 2018. The 20,000-plus-square-foot facility will be built next to the Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall in Lihue. In addition to a film studio, the KCTC will feature a screening room and video editing bays, as well as classes and events for both professionals and the community—from indus- A rendering of the Kauai Creative Technology Center, which is expected to break ground in 2017. try training and workforce development courses to youth film classes. “The center will not only create and sustain creative technology based jobs, but it will provide training and education programs and make this sector an economic driver that benefits our community and our residents,” said Susan Tai Kaneko, Kauai Economic Development Board president and CEO, in an August Garden Island newspaper article. She added that last year, 30 percent of the crew members for film productions on the island were Kauai residents, and that “the goal is to eventually double that percentage.” HFV For more information, visit www.kauaicreativetechcenter.com.
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 25
26 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
Kauai TALKING TALENT
SPECIAL FOCUS
IN The Islands
Photos by Angela Tillson
G
arden Isle-based Angela Tillson, who owns and operates Casting*Kauai and A Whale of a Time Productions, recently answered a few questions for Hawaii Film & Video Magazine about her experiences casting Hawaii productions.
Hawaii Film & Video: What recent production projects have you worked on? Angela Tillson: I recently worked on and found talent for four different film productions in the last six months. • A forensic real crime film project for a mysterious accident (very interesting watching the director and his technical photographers work), reenacting the accident with local talent. Angela Tillson • A kid’s singing talent show for Hawaii. • The new Kauai Ritz-Carlton ad campaign. • The environmental film named Aina: That Which Feeds Us, a sustainability piece featured in this year’s Hawaii International Film Festival. HFV: What do you enjoy most about being a casting director? AT: I enjoy and love being a Casting Director; I have been doing it for over 23 years in the state of Hawaii and teaching the local talent skills needed to perform their auditions, castings and jobs successfully. It’s still a very exciting and rewarding job for me, always being a challenge in making the director’s or production’s visual dream come to reality. The added bonus for me is I love meeting new personalities consistently with incredible talents, looks and a passion in making their dreams come true too. HFV: What is the most important thing that a production company should know when hiring a casting director?
AT: Casting Directors get to know actors/talent from when they first enter the business to when they start to get work on shoots. They have interviewed, worked and auditioned their resources of talent/ actors, being exceedingly familiar with the actor/talent’s strengths and specialties. Saving production time and money in helping choose the perfect talent. HFV: Why should out-of-state productions cast locally? AT: As an out-of-state production company hires local talent, it provides their projects with the best possible talent available, saving cost of airfares, hotels, per diem and time in their decision making. Casting*Kauai provides talent that is very familiar with the environmental conditions of our islands, making it easier and flawless when having to shoot in ocean conditions, heat, jungle, mountain and forest locations that out-of-state talent might not be used to, needing more time to adjust before shooting takes place. I’ve been told by many productions using my local talent that they were “very impressed with the quality of the talent on the A scene from Aina: That Which Feeds islands.” HFV Us, which was filmed on Kauai.
Casting*Kauai Angela Tillson PO Box 1405 Kapaa, HI 96746-7405 (808)823-0105 Phone • (808)635-3710 Cell E-mail: angela@aloha.net hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 27
28 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
IN DEMAND ON KAUAI
W
ork Horse Productions & Kauai Grip Truck is the only grip company on the island. They have a large variety of grip equipment, some lighting and a great crew to serve you. They also specialize in production supplies, such as coolers, tents, tables, chairs, wardrobe racks and lots more. Work Horse Productions has been serving Kauai for over 30 years, but their services and crew are available statewide 24/7. Recent productions include a Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau shoot on Kauai and Wheel of Fortune on the Big Island. HFV Visit www.kauaifilmandstageservices.com for more information.
Locations/Production Management Production Coordinator Features • Commercials • T.V. Music Videos
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 29
MAUIFILMINDUSTRIES
• Support Crew • Equipment Rental • Mobile Editing Suite Hawaii (MESH Van) • Accommodations • Transport & Party Bus s
Ed “Casey” Ledoux • 808-280-0546 • info@mauifilmindustries.com
30 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
Chris Schmelzer on a location scout with VOLKFILMS.
SCOUTING IN PARADISE MAUI PRODUCTION PROS TALK FILMING IN THE ISLANDS
Photos courtesy of VOLKFILMS
T
he Islands of Hawaii have a stellar reputation as one of the world’s best tropical filming locations. The State of Hawaii Film Office wants to ensure that it will be kept this way and is here to assist productions with their filming goals, while helping to protect Hawaii’s delicate resources.
Hawaii is an amazing place to film due to its incredible beauty, its talented and hardworking labor pool, and a multitude of diverse locations that range from remote rainforests to deserts, oceanscapes to urban landscapes, paired with a global mix of local culture that sets Hawaii apart from the rest of the world. VOLKFILMS caught up with Glenn Beadles (On Location Services) and Stefan Schaefer (Cicala Films), both based on Maui, to find out more about the importance of location scouting here in Hawaii. eadles is up first:
B
VOLKFILMS: If an international film company wants to come to Hawaii, what are the dos and don’ts of finding the right location? Glenn Beadles: First of all, make sure all their entry visas are in order. This takes a lot of forethought and prep: A) Get their entry visa in a timely manner. B) If they are bringing in equipment, make sure you have your carnet. Hire a professional location scout or manager. This will shorten the production process and gives them key information that they might not be aware of right at the beginning of the process. This includes permitting different areas of jurisdiction and also a good
plan on how to conduct a proper scout so they’re not flying blind, so to speak. Not all locations are considered friendly or available for production. So it’s good to know what those areas are, whether it’s cultural, environmental or other festivities that would eliminate it as an option for a location shoot. VF: In general, how friendly are the Hawaiian Islands towards production? GB: Very friendly! In fact, I find that it’s some of the easier places to work. A lot of it is how it will benefit the production to project the scenes of Hawaii, but also how Hawaii is depicted is really an important consideration, even at the script-writing phase. We’ve all seen the reality of television drama making a mess of things here in Hawaii because they are not up-front or honest or they don’t depict Hawaii in the most flattering or favorable light. I think that is really important that people understand that Hawaii is an incredible place to film, as long as it’s the right approach and the right storyline in that it doesn’t diminish the culture or locations. VF: Do you think Hawaii as a location is more favorable as a tropical background or does the ecosystem offer a lot more vahawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 31
riety for production? GB: A lot more variety. In fact, there are so many different looks in Hawaii, having around 13 different ecosystems between the different Islands. You have anything from an African savanna to lush tropical rainforests. The nice thing is the short distance between each of these locations. It runs the full range of diverse locations, making Hawaii an ideal place to film. VF: Because Hawaii is a bit more expensive and having the tax incentives is a bonus, what makes Hawaii stand out for you as a filmmaker to shoot here? GB: Production value on the screen. Not only does Hawaii have almost 13 hours of daylight (per day) all year, Hawaii’s locations are spectacular! The local crews are professional, experienced and easy to work with. Also, the availability for equipment makes it a no-brainer for a remote central location being only five hours from Los Angeles. And again, the diversity in the looks you can get in Hawaii. Yes, it’s a little bit more expensive and you’re in the middle of the Pacific, however, the tax credit helps and the production value
VF: Do you think Oahu caters more towards feature films and Maui towards television? GB: No. Oahu is certainly known for its feature films and episodics, however I would position Maui more as a commercial venue for national and international commercials, but also for fashion, editorial style, travel and convention work. We have a really good lion’s share of convention work on Maui.
W
riter/director/producer Stefan Schaefer shared his insights with VOLKFILMS, as well:
VF: When it comes to location scouting in Hawaii, what is your experience? Stefan Schaefer: From the writer’s side, when I know it’s going to be shot here, I already write for locations I have in mind. It doesn’t always work out in the end when you scout for a location, but generally my experience has been good. People really want to work with you and are excited that you produce here on Maui.
VF: What are the dos and don’ts for location scouting in Hawaii for new companies coming to the Islands to film? SS: If you don’t live here and have no connections, you should work with one of the experienced location scouts who work and live here, because they have relationships that go back decades sometimes. They will be able to secure your location and navigate the permitting process, so when you roll up on set you are not going to get shut down or The variety of majestic nature backdrops Hawaii Paradise found. offers is astounding. have the neighborhood up in arms or DLNR coming and shutting you down. So it’s highyou see on screen makes up for all that. As I said, the professionalism ly advisable to work with professionals from the get-go. Even if you of the crews on Maui offsets the costs, as well. live here and are working on a sizeable project, you want to make sure you have the expertise on your side. VF: Your company, On Location Services (OLS), has been estabVF: Does Hawaii offer locations for any kind of shoot? lished for over 25 years working on big projects. What is your speSS: In Hawaii in general, you can shoot for many different places. It cialty you provide to production companies? GB: The knowledge of having enough time and experience about might not be plausible, as the cost to produce in Hawaii is slightly location settings. Helping steer productions to the right locations higher than other locations, but if your show is somehow connector finding the right productions that are right for the locations. My ed here or if there is an overall financial rationale to produce here, value and skill set is not only as a location scout, but also as a project there are definitely all the locations here. You can find old historic manager and line producer. I know all the elements that it takes to buildings, forests like you would find on the mainland, mountain do a production, large or small. I generally start as a location scout; landscapes. You can shoot a cowboy movie here, a sci-fi. Obviously when productions learn my skill set, I end up line producing or proyou can take advantage of water scenes, underwater, beaches, junduction manager, as well as location managing. So it’s these values gle… but you can get gritty urban scenes, as well, on Oahu. Hawaii and depth of knowledge of crew, equipment, locations, permitting offers a ton of different possibilities and it does look like the United process and tax incentives which makes OLS valuable on any proStates. So if you are coming from Asia, you might shoot here instead duction, large or small. of going all the way to Vancouver, California, Louisiana or wherever. VF: The co-op business model between production companies on the Islands is unique. What is your opinion on this? GB: I like that it’s cooperative (rather) than competitive on the Islands. We each bring our level of experience and clients to the table, making it much easier to work together than work against each other. Production companies realize this when they start making inquiries about certain equipment and who can operate it. 32 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
VF: Hawaii at this point is in the process of building studios to attract larger productions to the Islands. Do you see Hawaii as an outdoor shooting place for now? SS: Definitely. People come to shoot locations here. We are not at the point yet where it makes financial rationale to shoot studio stuff over here unless your film is directly linked with the Islands. Then it makes sense to shoot your studio component over here, as well.
VF: How do you navigate the cultural sensitivity of the Hawaiian Islands? SS: If you are coming here from the outside, you will need a location manager right away and that person will be able to get you in touch with a cultural consultant. That is key, in particular if your story has components of Hawaiian history and culture. It’s just good filmmaking practice to be sensitive to all the cultural aspects involved wherever you go. It makes sense to put a little money and effort into this step at the beginning so you won’t have the headaches associated with poor planning later. VF: You wrote the script for the German-based production company Network Movie, who produced the Heike Dorsch book Bluewater Sailing. Can you highlight on that project and how everything translated into the actual production? SS: Network Movie came here and shot more than half of the feature-length film on location on Maui. It was a big imprint. They brought half their crew, hired a lot of local people. The state was supportive of them shooting here. I wrote the script, but was not so hands-on in terms of production, but it all went well. They had a good experience and the response was that they would come back under the right circumstances. Producing in Hawaii gives you many advantages besides the incredible locations, and a lot less challenges you might run into in third world productions, where some of the infrastructure might not be there in the same way. VF: Do you feel many locations in Hawaii are of restricted access?
Robby Seeger, VOLKFILMS, and Chris Schmelzer, Network Movie, discussing the next step.
SS: I have done many films in New York City and it’s similar. Oftentimes it comes down to personal connection or how you approach a location. The initial conversation with the Film Office and the city lay the foundation on how to navigate your project. There are definitely challenges. Regulations on shooting in the water and there are certain sensitivities, but it’s really not any different than shooting in New York City. VF: Does Hawaii offer the best production climate in the world? SS: If it’s a film that is in need of these incredible locations we have, then yes, Hawaii is an incredible place to produce. You can work with the unions, you can work with the state… work in a neighborly way and come away with an amazing product. The incentive helps, as it is a little more expensive to film here. Some people in L.A. are considering moving their post-production facilities out here to take advantage of the tax credit. HFV
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 33
34 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
BIG ISLAND
GVS ACCELERATOR EMPOWERS HAWAII FILMMAKERS Launched in April of 2014, the GVS Transmedia Accelerator Program utilizes disciplined development models, mentorship and coaching relationships, seed financing, and synergistic collaboration to empower Hawaii’s creative entrepreneurs to launch original transmedia franchises. Here’s a brief look at how the program works: • Accelerator: From story and script refinement and creative proof of concept to breakdowns, schedule and budget for execution to business, marketing and distribution plans— selected startups will be accelerated through GVS’ unique Transmedia Pipeline positioning them for successful follow-on financing. • Products: Selected companies will develop at least 3 transmedia products (per company) that are grown out of their creative IP and financed by $50K in seed funding for development processes in exchange for a 10% equity stake in participant companies. • For Hawaii: Preference will be shown to candidates who demonstrate plans to produce products and retain the value of their Intellectual Property in Hawaii, or continue business activities in Hawaii. The Accelerator is meant to foster creativity and stimulate job growth for creative industries in Hawaii. • Location: The Accelerator initiative is located at Honua Studios in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. Accepted Teams will need to attend certain sessions in person during this time. • Program: Each selected startup will participate in a six-month intensive program including tailored curriculum and evaluations; receive insight from expert mentors, hands-on coaching, topical seminars, and peer-workshopping; share co-work space in a synergistic environment at Honua Studios; and participate in the cohort market tests and demo day.
FILMMAKERS HELP BRING KO’OLAU TO THE BIG SCREEN
B
ig Island filmmaker David L. Cunningham is partnering with Hollywood production company MPower Pictures and Kona-based Jumping Flea Productions to bring the story of Ko’olau the Leper to the big screen.
The film, based on the short story by author Jack London, will tell the true story of a Hawaiian leper and paniolo named Ko’olau, who in 1893 revolted and resisted capture from forces of the Provisional Government of Hawaii in the Kalalau Valley. Cunningham, who was born in Switzerland but raised in Kona, worked in Hollywood as a studio director for many years before returning home to Hawaii to help develop the film industry here. “It has been my life-long pursuit to make movies in Hawaii about Hawaii,” he told HawaiiNewsNow. “There are so many footnotes in our history that need to be told. Although we are very grateful for visiting productions, we are not only a filming location. We have a voice and that voice needs to be heard. I believe that a healthy partnership with Hollywood and producers like Steve (McEveety, founder and CEO of MPower Pictures) who really get it is a significant leap forward.” In addition to Cunningham and McEveety, the third partner in this project is Jumping Flea Productions, a new Big Island production company and a recent graduate of the GVS Accelerator program. A partnership between Global Virtual Studio (GVS), the Hawaii Strategic Development Corporation (HSDC), the County of Hawaii and the GTA Development Fund, the Accelerator aims to empower Hawaii’s creative entrepreneurs to launch their original transmedia franchises. The program was founded in 2014 by Cunningham and is based out of Honua Studios in Kona. Upon graduating from the esteemed program, which was named one of the 50 most innovative accelerators in America by the U.S. Small Business Administration, Jumping Flea received $50,000 in development seed financing and will also have the opportunity to tap up to $250,000 in matching follow-on investment from the Accelerator Fund. Ko’olau will be entirely produced in the State of Hawaii and will receive the 25-percent production and post-production rebate for the neighbor islands. HFV
For more information, or to apply, visit www. gvsaccelerator.com.
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 35
Zac Efron, Anna Kendrick Star in
Oahu-shot Comedy
T
he feature comedy Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates wrapped in early August after two months of filming in various Oahu locations.
The film was drawn to Hawaii not only because of the beautiful tropical locations but because of the state’s tax credit program, which offers a refund of 20 percent of qualified production costs incurred on Oahu, and 25 percent on the neighbor islands. “It made a lot of sense for the movie,” executive producer David Ready told HawaiiNewsNow. “It made a lot of sense for the storytelling, and we found some great locations that ultimately led us to the decision.” Filming took place at the Turtle Bay Resort and other North Shore locations, as well as in downtown Honolulu. Starring Adam DeVine and Zac Efron as the title characters, Mike and Dave is about two brothers who post a Craigslist ad to find dates to a destination wedding in Hawaii, and the post goes viral. It’s based on the true story of brothers Mike and Dave Stangle, whose own date-seeking post went viral and landed them on Good Morning America and Anderson Cooper, among other national shows. In addition to DeVine and Efron, the film also stars Anna Kendrick, Aubrey Plaza and Stephen Root, in addition to several local actors. The film was directed by Jake Szymanski, known for his work on the “Funny or Die” website, and written by Andrew J. Cohen and Brendan O’Brien. Mike and Dave is scheduled to be released on July 8, 2016, by 20th Century Fox. HFV
36 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
Hawaii Thriller Camino Premieres
S
hot earlier this year in several Oahu locations, indie thriller Camino recently held its world premiere at Fantastic Fest in Austin, Texas.
The film stars stuntwoman-turned-actress Zoë Bell as “Avery,” a war photographer whose latest project has her embedded in the jungles of Colombia with a group of missionaries and their beloved leader, “El Guero” (played by Nacho Vigalondo). When Avery witnesses El Guero committing a heinous atrocity, capturing the vile act on film, she knows he will employ every tactic at his disposal to destroy that photograph—and the photographer who took it—so she flees into the Colombian jungle. Oahu locations—in particular Manoa Falls— serve as stand-ins for the jungles of Colombia. Other filming locations included Kahana Valley and Nuuanu Memorial Park. In an interview with TwitchFilm, Bell said that the film shot for a week last January, but production was cut short when she was called back for the Quentin Tarantino film Hateful Eight. Camino returned to Hawaii in June to finish filming. Zoë Bell stars in Camino. Photo courtesy of When asked whether it was difficult getting back Xlrator Media into character after such a long break, Bell replied, “Yeah, it was. I love Avery, my character. It’s such a weird thing we do. I had been in such a different space on Hateful Eight with the work I was doing, both with the training and the character. We were halfway through a scene the first day back on Camino, and I felt, ‘ah... There she is!’” Bell is no stranger to filming in Hawaii, having recently appeared in an episode of Hawaii Five-0 in 2013 and in LOST in 2008. Camino was directed by Josh C. Waller and marks the second collaboration between he and Bell, following 2013’s Raze. Fully financed and produced by Bleiberg Entertainment, the film will be released domestically in early 2016 on Xlrator Media’s Turbo action label. HFV
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 37
“Hawaii’s #1 Talent Agency” New Toll Free Phone: 1-888-902-3414 New Toll Free Fax: 1-888-337-3454 Email: info@adragency.com www.adragency.com Serving the Hawaiian Film and Video Industry for over 30 years
SAG-AFTRA FRANCHISE AGENT 38 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
ADR: Hire Local!
A
DR Agency continues to lead the market in talent bookings. From recent films like Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates to national commercial projects like Panasonic, ADR talent book!
Although we are known for representing “Hawaii’s Professionals,” with many of our talent averaging 15-plus years’ experience, ADR prides itself on introducing some of the most successful new faces to the market. This combination keeps ADR on top of its game and it contributes to the fact that our booking percentage is one of the highest compared to all other agents in Hawaii. As a longtime agent for over 30 years, we can remember the days when it was common to hear, even from local casting directors, how Hawaii lacks talent with the skill set of their national counterparts. That fueled our agency’s efforts to prove them wrong. ADR partners with key acting coaches and studios to develop Hawaii talent. We take great care to understand our talent and their range of ability. By working closely with our talent, we can raise their value. ADR has done just that and our agency represents the best commercial and theatrical talent in our market. In addition, our talent can and do compete on a national scale with talent from other markets. Why should productions hire local talent? More than the fact that it makes practical business sense, they should hire local because our talent rock! They are professional, they have the skill and they can enhance any production with co-star billing or higher! At the ADR Agency, you can find the most experienced agency staff, direct and personalized service from professionals who know their talent and our industry. HFV Call us today at 1-888-902-3414 or email our agency staff at ryan@adragency.com (Ryan Brown, owner) or pomai@adragency.com (Pomai Lopez, booker). Visit www.adragency.com.
Tools Equipment Trucks
3061 Aukele St., Lihue, HI 96766 p: 808-246-1000 Fax 808-246-1155 www.toolmasterhawaii.com Hrs: 6:30 a.m to 4:30 p.m. Mon - Fri • 8 a.m. to 12 noon Sat
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 39
TALENT AGENCY SPOTLIGHT HAWAII FILM & VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS SOME OF THE LOCAL AGENCIES MAKING A SPLASH IN THE ISLANDS Shawna Erickson, Owner/ President Niche Models & Talent www.nichemodelsandtalent.com What recent production projects has your talent been involved in? We just booked an Apple SAG commercial, the Zac Efron movie Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates, Hawaii Five-0. The Australian airline Jetstar just booked a bunch of our talent for their TV commercial that was shot here. We also had some talent on a Japanese feature film and a Japanese credit card commercial. We have also been working on a variety of still shoots for upcoming residential companies for Howard Hughes, Kapolei Lofts, Disney Aulani, KoOlina Resorts, Athleta Catalog, R Magazine, Summit, Flux and even Playboy.
Swan Elliott, Owner Reggie Trusel, Hawaii Director/Booker Focus International Model & Talent Agency www.focushawaii.com
What do you look for in new talent? Eagerness, confidence, determination, reliability and great personalities. A great smile and beautiful hair and skin and fit bodies are helpful too!
What recent production projects has your talent been involved in? Hawaii Visitor and Convention Bureau (print campaign), Mediamax Films – Jetstar Australian Airline (commercial), Midori-Treat Co. – Tokyo (bridal catalog).
What do you enjoy most about your job? What is the most difficult aspect of your job? I enjoy helping people make their dreams come true and I love providing a service to all of the productions going on in Hawaii. I like to give back to the industry that has given me so much. The most difficult part is the talent and productions that don’t follow protocol. This business is such a smooth-running machine when everyone follows the rules and protocols, but when they don’t, it hurts the business and everyone in it. The agencies are competitive with each other also and it hurts the entire industry when agencies start undercutting on rates, etc. It hurts our whole industry. We always try to take the high road at Niche.
What do you look for in new talent? Self-motivated people who are not afraid to take initiative. Easy to work with but dependable and committed. Willing to go above and beyond. Open and eager to develop themselves—goal-setters. Must have integrity and show good work ethic.
Why should out-of-state productions utilize local talent? We have models and talent that have worked in New York and L.A. but who live here now. It is definitely worth it to hire locally and save the travel fees. Our agency website is easily navigable and up to par with most mainland agencies. We have specific categories to make it as easy as possible for clients to find the talent that they are looking for, from high fashion to sports to lifestyle and commercial talent. We also have a broad range of ages from 0-70 years old. We try to be the one-stop shop for productions coming to Hawaii to make it easy for them to find all of the talent they need. 40 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
What do you enjoy most about your job? What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Love working with clients from around the world. Challenging part is promoting and working with some really fabulous talent and models—but not enough steady work. Why should out-of-state productions utilize local talent? We have built a really great foundation here in Hawaii. Capable in providing all aspects of production. Focus International Hawaii Model & Talent Agency realizes we are only as strong as our talent, making sense for us to focus on the quality of our programs, and our ability to promote/market our talent the best way that we can. We offer a “Lifetime” workshop, which gives our talent more specialized training on a monthly basis. Our goal is to help empower and encourage them to reach their goals and achieve their dreams! We pride ourselves on giving our clients confident, trained, professional talent.
Kathy Muller, Founder/Owner Kathy Muller Agency www.kathymuller.com What recent production projects has your talent been involved in? Jobs we recently booked talent on include a national commercial for a huge mobile device company—secretive, so we are not able to disclose the name at this time. Also JCB Card for Japan, Hawaiian Telcom, Sears, Kai Apparel, Michelob national commercial, Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates feature film, Gilla Clothing, Blue Ginger, Jams World, Reyns, Ward Villages, and Hawaii Five-0, just to name a few. In addition to models/actors, our locations have recently been used for Kin Mugi commercial, Michelob commercial, Island Insurance commercial, Java Curry commercial Japan, Bank of Hawaii, American Savings, First Insurance, and Arashi. What do you look for in new talent? We can usually tell when we first meet a prospective actor if they will be a good fit for the Kathy Muller Agency. Our actors need to be outgoing, have a good attitude and be dedicated enough to work hard on improving their acting skills. The ability to take direction and accept constructive criticism is key. All types and looks can be successful in our acting division if they put the time and work into developing their craft. Prospective models in both our petite and
high fashion divisions need to have the same positive attitude and work ethics. They also need to have good proportions, clear complexion and be comfortable in front of the camera. Kathy Muller Agency models are known for not only their wholesome beauty but for their great attitudes and professionalism. What do you enjoy most about your job? I feel so fortunate to have the most wonderful, dedicated and hard-working staff. Many of the KMA staff have been with the company since I started the company over 35 years ago. We all feel the same way about our team…we’re like family. Good values and incredible work ethics are our common thread. We all enjoy our time together. What’s the most difficult aspect of your job? The most difficult aspect of our job is negotiating rates that we feel our talent deserve. We feel strongly that our top talent should be getting rates that reflect their skill level and are up to par with mainland rates. Too often rates are dictated to us on a take it or leave it basis. Also, our industry is known for having to deal with last-minute calls and decisions regarding auditions and bookings in our talent, modeling and locations division. This fast-paced and last-minute style of doing business can be difficult for all involved. It’s fortunate that we all seem to be able to handle this unpredictable industry. Why should out-of-state productions utilize local talent? Many of the local talent are incredibly good actors with strong resumes and need to be not only utilized but paid on the same scale as mainland talent. It is a constant battle for the agents in Hawaii. We won’t give up on that fight! HFV
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 41
HAWAII’S GOT TALENT!
LOCAL ACTORS MAKING A NAME FOR THEMSELVES ON THE BIG SCREEN AND BEYOND PATRICK JAMES MCLAFFERTY Patrick James McLafferty was born in Honolulu, Hawaii. He is second oldest in a family of ten children. Never a dull moment as you can imagine. He is of Hawaiian, Irish, and German descent. He began his acting career doing extra work on the movie Battleship and television episodic Off the Map, progressing to more featured parts in television on I Shouldn’t Be Alive and In the Dead of Night. Patrick has been honing his craft over the last several years, attending method acting and improv classes. The hard work is beginning to pay off, as he landed the lead role in Forget Him, an independent feature-length film shooting in Hawaii. JERI LYNN ENDO You may recognize Jeri Lynn from local and national television spots for Domestic Violence Action Center, Foodland and Disney’s Aulani Resort. She is also “Chin Ho’s Mom” in Hawaii Five-0’s episode, “Hana Lokomaika`i” (2014: Sylvain White, Director). Jeri Lynn discovered her passion for the world of acting as a background actor and body double in Picture Bride, filmed on location in Hawaii (1995: Kayo Hatta). Jeri Lynn’s earlier and most recent film projects have received HIFF screenings, including Paper Cranes (1998: Ryan Kawamoto, Director) and this year’s Empty Spaces (2015: Erin Lau, Director).
Both Patrick James McLafferty and Jeri Lynn Endo work with acting coach and talent manager Sally Jackson. For more information on Jackson, visit www.theactorsmuse.com.
SALLY JACKSON THE ACTORS’ MUSE TALENT MANAGER • Coaching for ‘METHOD FOR FILM’ • Privates & Classes in Honolulu
francismjackson@earthlink.net
RICK ROMER
Member: Art Directors Guild / Local 800 (Hollywood) Local 44 (L.A.), Local 665 (Hawaii), SDSA
PRODUCTION DESIGNER • ART DIRECTOR • SET DECORATOR Hawaii Five-0, LOST, The River, North Shore Pilot, E.R., Princess Ka’iulani, Baywatch Hawaii, Fantasy Island, One West Waikiki, Diagnosis Murder Pilot, Jake and the Fatman, Magnum, P.I., Features & Commercials. (808) 258-3848 richardromer@yahoo.com flickr.com/photos/rick_romer/sets
42 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
“We focus on you.” Providing award-winning talent and models for fashion and editorial print, commercial print, industrial films, feature films, commercials, video presentations, voice-overs, casting, and live performances. Working with top international clients, we pride ourselves on personal and professional service. Hawaii With Focus Magazine: www.hawaiiwithfocus.com/archive.html Focus On Aloha Productions LLC: Now Casting New Reality Show: A journey that will lead 12 participants into a life changing transformation of their inner/outer self - ”Focus WithIn”
808 On Stage Productions - ”Tribal Motion” Stage & Runway ShowHighlighting Exotic Runway Models, Tribal Dancers, Cirque Performers, and Musicians from around the Islands.
Casting Highlights Include: Maui Above and Below-Emmy Award Winning TV Pilot Phone: 808-326-1108 • 808-323-3333 • swan@focushawaii.com • www.focushawaii.com
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 43
ADR Agency Oahu 888-902-3414; fax 888-337-3454 info@adragency.com www.adragency.com
Chameleon Talent Agency Maui 808-879-7817 cynthia@chameleontalent.com www.chameleontalent.com
Encore Talent & Big Island Casting Big Island 808-990-7848 laura@encoretalent-hawaii.com www.encoretalent-hawaii.com
Focus International Hawaii Model & Talent Agency Big Island 808-323-3333 / 808-326-1108 swan@focushawaii.com www.focushawaii.com
44 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
OTH ER
SP ST ORT TA UNT S/ LEN T
HA ST IR MAYLISTS AR KEU / WA TISTS/ P STY RDRO LIST BE S
LIV PE E MURFOR SP SICI MAN TALECIALANS/ CE/ ENT EVE NT
SP SP OKES HO EAKERPEOPL STS S/ E/
VO TA ICE O LEN V T ER
Types of talent available
MO DE LS
COMPANY ISLAND PHONE EMAIL WEBSITE
AC TO RS
HAWAII Modeling & Talent Agencies
OTH ER
SP ST ORT TA UNT S/ LEN T
HA ST IR MAYLISTS AR KEU / WA TISTS P STY RDRO/ LIST BE S
LIV PE E MURFOR SP SICI MAN TALECIALANS/ CE/ ENT EVE NT
SP SP OKES HO EAKERPEOPL STS S/ E/
VO TA ICE O LEN V T ER
Types of talent available
MO DE LS
COMPANY ISLAND PHONE EMAIL WEBSITE
AC TO RS
HAWAII Modeling & Talent Agencies
Larson Talent Oahu, Maui, Kauai, & Big Island 808-347-3604 larsontalent1@gmail.com www.larsontalent.com instagram.com/larsontalenthawaii Kathy Muller Talent & Modeling Agency Oahu 808-737-7917; fax 808-734-3026 info@kathymuller.com www.kathymuller.com Niche Models and Talent LLC Oahu 808-734-4941; fax 808-734-4948 info@nichemodelsandtalent.com www.nichemodelsandtalent.com Premier Models and Talent Oahu 808-955-6511 model@premiermodeling.com www.premiermodeling.com Wilhelmina Hawaii Oahu 888-907-3557; fax 888-337-3454 info@wilhelminahawaii.com www.wilhelminahawaii.com
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 45
HAWAII Casting Directors
Aloha Casting Maui 641-715-3900 ext. 198797 alohacasting808@gmail.com www.alohacasting.com Brent Anbe Casting Oahu 808-728-3026 brentanbecasting@gmail.com Big Island Casting Big Island 808-990-7848 laura@encoretalent-hawaii.com www.encoretalent-hawaii.com Casting*Kauai Kauai 808-635-3710 angela@aloha.net Chameleon Talent Agency Maui 808-879-7817 cynthia@chameleontalent.com www.chameleontalent.com Ehman Productions Inc. Maui 808-870-4732; fax 720-596-7882 ehman@maui.net www.ehmanproductions.com Anna Fishburn Casting Oahu 808-227-6150 annafishburn09@gmail.com Focus International Hawaii Model & Talent Agency Big Island 808-326-1108 / 808-323-3333 swan@focushawaii.com www.focushawaii.com Larson Talent Oahu, Maui, Kauai & Big Island 808-347-3604 larsontalent1@gmail.com www.larsontalent.com instagram.com/larsontalenthawaii Lucky Dog Productions Inc. Kauai 808-652-5210; fax 877-504-9376 jason@luckydogkauai.com www.luckydogkauai.com North Shore Casting Oahu 808-783-5533 lindsaymcgill@mac.com www.minnoweleven.com Ohana Casting Oahu 808-535-4917 ohanacasting@gmail.com www.ohanacasting.com 46 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com
OT HE R
LIV PER E MU FOR SP SICIA MAN E TA CIAL NS/ CE / LEN EV EN T T
VO ICE OV ER
MO DE LS
EX BA TRA CK S/ GR OU ND
PR AC INC TO IPA RS L
COMPANY ISLAND PHONE EMAIL WEBSITE
Types of talent cast
hawaiifilmandvideo.com • ISSUE THREE 2015
HAWAII FILM & VIDEO 47
48 HAWAII FILM & VIDEO
ISSUE THREE 2015 • hawaiifilmandvideo.com