Hands-on filmmaking for Maui’s youth.

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About

Hisako Film Lab is a filmmaking education organization providing hands-on instruction and resources to Maui’s youth. Our programs are designed to build foundational and in-depth film production skills, focusing on storytelling as a way to process and celebrate what makes us unique — including our personal histories, cultures, quirks, and the things we think about often but don’t regularly say out loud. Our goal is to create an accepting, fun space where young people can discover and amplify their creative voices through the powerful tools of filmmaking. 

A registered non-profit, Hisako Film Lab was founded by Maui-born-and-raised filmmaker Destin Daniel Cretton, known for directing Marvel’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Local operations on Maui are directed by Brad Kester, a filmmaker and credentialed teacher who has mentored aspiring film students for over 10 years. 

We’re thrilled to support existing film and media programs both in and out of school campuses throughout Maui and also seek to fill gaps where programming isn’t currently available.

Hisako Film Lab is the non-profit educational arm of Hisako Films, an innovative multimedia company established by Destin Daniel Cretton. Our name comes from Cretton’s grandma, who gave him his first VHS camcorder.

Destin Daniel Cretton

Founder

Destin Daniel Cretton is a Maui-born-and-raised filmmaker known for directing Short Term 12, Just Mercy, Marvel Studios’ Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and the upcoming Spider-Man 4. With over 15 years in the film industry writing, directing and producing major films and television series, Destin has also worked as a youth film instructor and mentor, and continues to fulfill mentorship opportunities to aspiring filmmakers.

Brad Kester

Co-Director

Brad Kester is a filmmaker and CTE credentialed teacher who has mentored aspiring youth filmmakers for over 10 years. Prior to his role with Hisako Film Lab as the co-director and primary instructor, Brad oversaw the expansive cinema department at Canyon Crest Academy in San Diego which has been ranked multiple times as the #1 public high school in California. The department was highlighted by a rigorous afterschool Cinema Conservatory where its graduating students routinely went on to top film schools in the country and successful jobs within the film industry. Brad has ties to Maui culture through his wife who grew up in Haiku.

Joy Cretton

Co-Director

Joy Cretton is a Maui-born-and-raised costume designer with over 15 years of experience in the film industry, working on major film and television series including Short Term 12, American Born Chinese, as well as Marvel Studios’ Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and Wonder Man. She has mentored countless costume interns through hands-on training, and managed teams of up to 20 as a department head on large film sets. Joy brings a deep understanding of Maui's culture and strong local relationships, and she is eager to share her film industry knowledge with the next generation of young creatives.

Featured Projects

Summer Lab 2024

Watch Films

Spring Lab 2025

Watch Films

Summer Lab 2025

Watch Films
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Contact

Other inquiries: bk@hisakofilms.com