Wishful Thinking Film on Maui

There are moments on Maui that feel a little surreal… the kind you don’t quite plan for, but somehow become unforgettable.

This was one of them.

When Wishful Thinking — a film based on true events, friendship, heroic community spirit, and hope — began filming, it didn’t just pass through the island. It settled in. It breathed here. And for a brief window, it became part of our everyday life… even filming inside my home.

And honestly? That still feels a little wild to say. I can tell you from personal experience that Maui Magic does exist! A few years ago, I hosted Sarah, who was part of “Shaka”, a movie I also highly recommend. Because of that meeting, she reached out to me to see if I would be open to using my home as part of the movie set. I said YES!

What I didn’t realize at the time… this film carried something much deeper.

Wishful Thinking, written and directed by Kim Mi Ly, is inspired by the heartbreaking events of the 2023 Maui wildfires. At the center of the story is Alfie—a real person, a dear friend of Lahaina and of the filmmaker—whose loss shaped this entire narrative.

But in this story… Alfie survives.

That “what if” becomes a powerful way to process grief, while honoring the many unsung heroes who showed up for Maui during its darkest hours. It’s not just storytelling—it’s healing, remembrance, and aloha in action.

👉 Learn more about the film here

When Hollywood Feels… Local

Kathy had the chance to spend time with the Hawaii-based crew while they were filming, and what stood out wasn’t just the production — it was the people.

No big egos.

Just a group of creatives working together telling a story, deeply passionate about sharing a real Maui experience.
Because that’s the thing… Wishful Thinking isn’t just a film you watch. It’s a story of connection, loss, and resilience. It reflects the kind of relationships that naturally happen here — strangers becoming friends, moments turning meaningful, and community showing up in quiet but powerful ways.

Through the character of Kailea, the film follows a journey shaped by friendship and courage. From a chance encounter with Alfie to a life-changing bond… and years later, a return to Maui during the fires, carrying hope, supplies, and determination to reach him.

Watching scenes like this come to life in a place you know so personally? It hits differently.

Filming at Home… Literally

There’s something surreal about seeing lights, cameras, and a full crew set up in your own space.

Rooms you walk through every day suddenly framed through a lens. Corners of your home turned into part of a story bigger than you.

I felt like part of the ʻohana film crew—who came from Oʻahu, Maui, and the Big Island. They let me tag along for the adventure, and I loved every minute of it. Filming took us across different parts of Maui, capturing its beauty in such a real and intentional way. It reminded me just how blessed I am to live on this ʻāina (land).

We even camped one night in Hāna.

Magical Maui moments like this make you pause.

Because you realize… Maui isn’t just a destination people visit. It’s a place that inspires stories worth telling.
And sometimes, if you’re lucky, you get to be right there when it happens.

Maui Isn’t Just a Backdrop

Let’s be real — Maui has been in films before.

But this felt different.

Wishful Thinking doesn’t use the island as just scenery. It leans into what makes Maui… Maui. The slower pace. The deep human connections. The resilience that came forward after the fires.

This film honors not only those we lost, but those who showed up—neighbors, friends, and everyday heroes who carried the spirit of aloha through one of the hardest times in Maui’s history.

That same feeling our guests talk about all the time.

That’s not scripted. That’s just Maui Magic doing its thing.

Supporting Stories That Matter

At Maui Vision Properties LLC, we believe Maui is more than a place to stay—it’s a community we care deeply about.

Supporting Wishful Thinking means supporting a story that reflects the strength, heart, and resilience of this island. It’s something we’re proud to be part of, and a reminder of why we do what we do—connecting people to Maui in a meaningful way.

A Little Nudge (Because Timing Matters)

If this story sparked something — the film, the island, the idea of being here while moments like this unfold…
This is your window.

Last-minute stays right now aren’t just possible… they’re kind of perfect.

Less rush. More space. And still plenty of whales.

Early April is still a beautiful time to experience whale season before they begin their journey back to Alaska—one last chance to witness something unforgettable, just offshore.

And if there’s one thing we’ve learned — whether it’s a film crew showing up or a whale breaching just offshore — the best Maui moments are usually the ones you didn’t plan.

If you’re feeling that pull… you already know.

We’ll help you find the right place to stay — the kind that lets you step into your own Maui story, comfortably and effortlessly.