About 9ISLE
Our award-winning team represents decades of experience in video and film production. From commercial projects, intimate shorts to feature films, no story is too small, no event too large – we thrive on finding the uniquely human aspect behind every narrative.
Our work extends beyond borders, with a trail that spans Europe, North America, Hawaii and the Pacific Region.
We’re seeking projects that engage, inspire, and connect. Let us join you in bringing your story to life!
Our Team
Who We Are
Originally from Switzerland, Tom Schneider moved to the United States in his early twenties after finishing Business School. Tom furthered his education at Full Sail University in Florida, earning a degree in Video and Film Production. Notably, he garnered acclaim during his time at Full Sail, securing nine Course Director Awards and earning the distinction of valedictorian of his class.
As a filmmaker, Tom has produced and directed multiple short films and two independent feature films, including “Souffle D’Ailleurs,” a comedy shot in Québec, Canada, which was showcased at multiple festivals in Europe and North America. His second feature, “The Willing,” filmed in the desert of Palm Springs, earned prestigious accolades, including an “Accolade Award of Merit” and a “CINE Golden Eagle Award,”
In 2014, Tom co-founded the Hawaii Filmmakers Collective (HFC), a non profit organization that promotes independent film production in Hawaii. Tom remains involved with HFC to this day as president of the board.
Alongside his film work, Tom produces video content for incentive programs and corporate events internationally. Since 2020, he owns Maui Total Visual, a photography and video production company based in Las Vegas and Hawaii.
Printmaker turned Film Producer, Mary “Michelle” Pearce, graduated from a public university in upstate South Carolina and promptly moved to Honolulu, Hawaii, in 2018. Starting over in Hawaii brought Michelle to Hawaii Filmmakers Collective (HFC), where she learned how to make films and run non-profits. She won the HFC Pitch Meeting in May 2018 and produced, directed, and cameoed (as is often the case) in her first short film, “Turn On Your Own.” She was accepted to the Made in Hawaii Film Festival in 2019 in the First Time Filmmakers category.
Michelle was asked to run HFC as their Executive Director from 2019-2021. There she facilitated event planning, program development, and community engagement. Michelle was accepted into the Creative Lab Hawaii Web Series Producer Fellowship in 2019 with her collaboration on the 3-part web series – Like Maddah. Her roles in production range from lead producer, creative development to first AD. Her credits include: Hele Gas Station Commercial, Teammates, Like Maddah, Mr. Puffins, Hokio, Shelter, and Ala Moana Boys (2021). Supported by the PBS Grant for Indigenous Filmmakers, Ala Moana Boys was able to hire a large number of Hawaii Filmmaker Collective members during the pandemic. She premiered Like Maddah and Ala Moana Boys at Hawaii International Film Festival in 2019 and 2021, respectively.
Currently, Michelle works as a Producer at Maui Total Visual, leading photo and video production teams on national and international projects. Her other roles include establishing a film studio in Las Vegas, developing short documentaries about the local art community, and hosting events for independent filmmakers for 9ISLE.
Our Neighborhood
The Arts Factory, Las Vegas
Our studio is located in the iconic Arts Factory, Las Vegas.
Opened in 1996, the Arts Factory has played a significant role in the revitalization of the Downtown Arts District, contributing to the area’s cultural growth. It provides a platform for artists to exhibit their creations and engage with the community.
The complex includes galleries, studios, shops, and other spaces dedicated to showcasing and promoting local artists and their work. The space also hosts art events, exhibitions as well as workshops and is at the center of the monthly First Friday event that draws thousands of visitors to the Arts District.
The Arts Factory has become a focal point for art enthusiasts, tourists, and locals alike, contributing to the city’s evolving cultural scene beyond the famous Las Vegas Strip. The complex continues to support and celebrate the diversity of artistic expression within the Las Vegas community.
