Short Summary

About the Director:

Matty Schweitzer is born and raised in the small town of Lahaina and has spent his life to become the most successful video production company in the town of Lahaina and across the island of Maui. Voted Maui’s best Drone Pilot and Runner up Cinematographer in 2023, Matty has been on a mission to Create documentary films that have the ability to change peoples life. Co-producing the award winning film “Broken Molds” in 2022 and Directing and producing “Finding True North” which will be released in 2024.

With the help of World renowned cinematographer Noah Waldron & Adam Gurene, (who have devoted their time and resources to work alongside Matty during this time in Lahaina) we aim to create a film that will inspire the world with our story while also bringing World Class cinematography and visuals into our film.

About the Film:

On August 8, 2023, Lahaina, Maui, (a small town of approximately 13,000 people) faced one of the deadliest wildfires in US history in over a century. The fire ravaged the town, amid a landscape of destruction. As the flames spread rapidly, propelled by over 60+ mile per hour winds, chaos ensued, with residents desperately trying to escape the inferno in various ways.

 

Amidst the devastation, something extraordinary happened – the community of Maui rallied together in an unprecedented display of unity. Despite being cut off from the outside world, with no electricity or phone reception, acts of love, compassion, and selflessness emerged. Without any formal coordination, residents began supporting and assisting their neighbors and fellow Lahaina residents. In just two days, the entire state of Hawaii responded, showing up on the shores of West Maui with boats filled with supplies, medical equipment, and donations.

 

In the aftermath of tragedy, a remarkable resilience and strength were revealed. As the world watched, humanity demonstrated its remarkable capacity for coming together in times of crisis. Empowered by an outpouring of love and support, Maui residents who had lost homes and loved ones became beacons of hope and inspiration, not just for Hawaii, but for cities worldwide facing similar catastrophes.

 

” Rising From the Ashes” goes into the past history of “Old Lahaina” and the changes that have shaped this town over the past 200 years and what led to these tragic events on August 8th. We then follows a few key community leaders as they organize donations, coordinate communications, and facilitate the delivery of crucial supplies throughout their community. Through their journey, we witness the remarkable resilience of Lahaina’s residents as they rise from the ashes and demonstrate the power of unity, love, and the spirit of Aloha. Their story serves as a guiding light, inspiring other communities to come together as one in the face of adversity.

What We Need & What You Get

• We are looking to raise capital to fund the process of our film through private funding so that the narrative is not controlled by outside sources.
• Your Support will not just help this film be produced, but also help to raise awareness to the people and needs of Lahaina.
• We are making this film regardless of the funding and capital raised, but the more funding we get the more time, Love and dedication can go into this historic documentary.

 

Other Ways You Can Help

Some people just can’t contribute, but that doesn’t mean they can’t help:

• If you cannot donate, please help by sharing the video & campaign to others out there!
• there are still thousands of displaced residents living on beaches, hotels, backyards and vehicles across Maui. PLEASE do anything you can to help this wonderful town!