Bringing compelling stories to life
Who we are:
Welcome to Marin Made Films, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing California’s history through documentary filmmaking. Based in the heart of Marin County, we specialize in producing high-quality films and multimedia content that explore the rich historical narratives of California’s people, places, and pivotal events.
Our mission is to bring history to life, tell the untold stories, feature the unsung heroes, and reveal the transformative moments that have shaped the Golden State. We hope to inspire curiosity by telling these stories in innovative and compelling ways, building a bridge between past and present for audiences to appreciate the impact of how the choices, struggles, and achievements of earlier generations influence our world today.
Donner Summit Project
As of Fall 2024, Marin Made Films has started production on an exciting new documentary that explores the historically rich significance of Donner Summit. This unique location in California’s Sierra Nevada is commonly only associated with the tragic Donner Party saga. The goal of this film is to tell the broader story of the historical significance of the summit, especially its role in the westward expansion of America.
This includes the often overlooked adventures of the first settlers who braved their way west through unforgiving weather and hostile territories in search for a better life. The accounting of under-appreciated Chinese laborers who worked tirelessly in extreme conditions to carve out the rail line through the rugged Sierra Nevada, and the legacy of Leland Stanford and the "Big Four" railroad magnates, Whose ambition drove the expansion westward, transforming Donner Summit into a critical passage that turned a once harrowing journey into a realistic option for millions.
By enlightening people to the historical challenges and achievements of the American generations before us, we will bring the history and enduring legacy of Donner Summit to life.
The Team
ALEC SHAW/ Executive Producer • Producer
For years, Alec has championed Marin Made, a nonprofit organization providing support to the local community in a variety of resourceful ways. This includes educational programs focused on creative expression through design, and film grants for select awareness projects that celebrate the bay area. Leveraging this experience and a genuine love for storytelling, Alec has launched an official film division dedicated to creating impactful long and short-form documentaries. With an eye for unique narratives and a passion for uncovering untold stories, he aims to bring fresh perspectives to inform, inspire, and entertain audiences.
SCOTT YOUNG/ Director • Editor • Associate Producer
As an experienced director-editor with a passion for storytelling, Scott is collaborating with Marin Made Films to help bring thought-provoking documentaries to life. Known for his insightful approach, he brings years of expertise in capturing authentic moments through story that resonate with an audience. In his long career of docu-style storytelling for many well known advertising agencies and clients, Scott originally gained national attention when he wrote, directed, and edited “Shooting Star”, a documentary about a senior women’s basketball league. The film debuted at the SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL and went on to screen in many festivals and special events throughout the world.
SUPPORTING TALENT
Marin Made Films is dedicated to working with a diverse network of talented people to transform concepts on the page into engaging visual stories. From subject-matter experts who provide critical insights, to directors of photography, editors, and crew who bring their expertise and creativity to each project.