Maya is a UK/German native producer, Maya is an LA based producer. Her company MHK Productions uncovers genre stories that highlight political issues; credits include DEATHCEMBER: A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE, Tribeca winner LUCKY GRANDMA, DIABLA (premiered on Alter to 50k views) & BLUE HOUR (part of the AFI DWW lab and WIF funded). Prior, she was in marketing (BBC) & the female content space (Refinery 29 & Maven Pictures). She’s been diversifying into the commercial space, working with non-binary director Rhi Bergado, creating content for brands with MTV and on Facebook Lives CARDI TRIES S2. Her feature lab success has come through: LUCKY STRIKES, completing Fantasia Frontieres Co Production Lab, Sitges Pitchbox & Berlinale Talent Project Market and ICON film, completing the Cine Qua Non Storylines and Eave Ties That Bind labs. She is a Columbia University Producing MFA, La Femis, WIF Producing and WEMW graduate as well as a proud member of WIF, BAFTA and PGA.
What it the title of your film in BIFF 2024?
Blue Hour
What was your first experience with film and how did it influence your first project?
I got really into film in my teens and watched Tim Burton, David Lynch and Argento movies far too young. My first film at film school (that I directed where I usually produce) was ghost story called DEATH WISH and definitely influenced by the horror and gothic cannon.
Who is (are) your favorite filmmakers?
Molly Manning Walker, Jane Campion, Christine Vachon, Jim Jarmusch
What are you working on that no one knows about?
I may be working on a Ukranian short. That’s completely new and about a liaison between a soldier and girl who won’t kiss.
Who would play you in a movie? What’s your go to movie snack? What’s the film title that best describes your life?
90s Drew Barrymore would play me in a movie. We both have that crooked smile.
I like a mix of salt and sweet popcorn- could be a uk thing and a hot dog.
‘Ghost World’ was my life in my 20s. Now I’m not sure.