Richard Gonzalez

Richard Gonzalez is an actor, director, and producer on The Big Island of Hawaii. Richard co-writes, directs and acts in his own action-adventure stories that are produced entirely on the Big Island. Growing up on Long Island, in the seventies, Richard became involved with "Television production" classes and became inspired to produce his own films for school projects. Utilizing local talent, and incorporating the island's diverse beauty, Richard's films are featured in local theaters for the sole purpose of entertaining Big island audiences. Richard's target audience is the general public, ages 8 to 80, encouraging movie goers to come out and support Big Island artists and local businesses. Richard uses his own money to produce his films, and receives assistance from local businesses. This symbiotic relationship between filmmaker and the business community offers promotional credit in exchange for reduced material rates and access to locations that feature and showcase popular island activities. The cast and crew for Richard's films includes local performing artists, as well as local business people who have a passion for acting, and who are willing to donate their time to be a part of the creative process. Many of the roles created by Richard have created opportunities for local actors to find additional work within their field. Richard's goal is to produce a product with a local theme, and quality feel that leaves viewers believing it was done on a larger scale budget. The price of admission is generally lower than mainstream movies, in order to draw audiences out to the theater. In an age where DVD's, and the internet are an easy, cheaper entertainment alternative, keeping ticket prices affordable encourages families to get off the couch and support their local theater. GIFilms gives back to the community by donating ticket sales to various organizations on the island such as the Aloha Performing Arts Company, and the continuing renovation of The Hilo Palace Theater in Hilo Hawaii, which is one of the oldest theaters in the state. Promoting the arts is an investment for future generations of moviegoers and movie makers in the state of Hawaii.