Moku Moku and Beyond: A Filmmaker's Guide to Authentic Storytelling and Creative Survival
When Brad Starks walked onto the set of the MAKE IT Podcast, he brought more than just a story—he delivered a masterclass in creative survival that every aspiring filmmaker needs to hear. At the intersection of passion, culture, and opportunity, Starks represents the kind of filmmaker who doesn't just dream about making movies, but actually creates them against all odds.
Watch the entire conversation on YouTube.
The Unexpected Path to Filmmaking
The path to becoming a filmmaker is rarely a straight line. For Starks, it began with a camera and a dream that looked nothing like his eventual destination. Starting in fashion photography, he navigated through the cutthroat worlds of European and New York fashion, learning crucial lessons about storytelling, connection, and authenticity that would later become the foundation of his filmmaking career.
"Cameras are machines that make everyone sit up straight," Starks jokes, but there's profound truth in that statement. Whether you're shooting a fashion spread or a documentary, the art of making people feel comfortable and capturing their genuine essence is the real skill behind great visual storytelling.
Cultural Representation: More Than Just a Checkbox
In an era where representation feels like a corporate buzzword, Starks and his team are doing the real work. Their show "Moku Moku" isn't just another Hawaiian narrative—it's a love letter to a community often misunderstood and stereotyped by mainstream media. By bringing in native Hawaiian writers and local talent, they're not just telling a story; they're preserving and celebrating a culture.
The Myth of Overnight Success
Here's the truth: success isn't about going viral or landing a massive Netflix deal overnight. It's about consistent work, building relationships, and creating meaningful connections. Starks emphasizes the importance of what he calls "lateral expansion"—supporting your creative community and being open to opportunities that might not look exactly like your original dream.
Practical Wisdom for Broke Creatives
Let's talk money and survival. Starks didn't wait for the perfect film opportunity—he created work across multiple platforms. From commercial productions to corporate events, he understood that being a filmmaker means being adaptable. Your film degree doesn't guarantee a Hollywood contract, but your ability to pivot and create value will.
The Aloha Principle of Creativity
One of the most powerful concepts Starks introduces is the Hawaiian principle of "Aloha"—which goes far beyond a simple greeting. It's about empathy, connection, and genuinely trying to make someone's life a little bit easier. In the competitive world of filmmaking, this approach is revolutionary.
During the devastating Maui fires, Starks and his team didn't just talk about community support—they transformed their production basecamp into a volunteer center. That's the kind of authentic leadership that separates great filmmakers from those who simply want to be famous.
Networking: It's Not What You Think
Forget the traditional networking advice of collecting business cards and making superficial connections. Starks suggests a radical approach: show up, be genuinely interested, and look for ways to support others. Your next opportunity might come from a conversation where you're more focused on listening than promoting yourself.
The Cultural Significance Dilemma
One of the most compelling discussions we had revolved around a critical question: Is it more important to make culturally significant films or profitable ones? The answer, according to Starks, is both—but achieving that requires patience, authenticity, and a deep understanding of your subject matter.
Think about films like "Schindler's List" or "Last of the Mohicans"—movies that were both commercially successful and culturally important. These aren't accidents; they're the result of passionate storytellers who refuse to compromise their vision.
Your Toolkit for Creative Survival
1. Be adaptable
2. Support your creative community
3. Prioritize authentic storytelling
4. Learn skills beyond your primary craft
5. Stay curious and open to unexpected opportunities
Call to Action: Your Next Step
This isn't just another podcast episode—it's a roadmap for creative survival. Whether you're a filmmaker, photographer, writer, or creative professional, Brad Starks' journey offers invaluable insights.
Want the full story? Watch the entire conversation on YouTube. It's also available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you choose to listen. Trust me, this is one conversation that could change the trajectory of your creative career.
Pro tip: Grab a notebook. You're going to want to take notes.