Marlon Brando’s Dream

I spent a lot of time with Marlon Brando in his final years discussing his vision for the atoll of Tetiaroa in the South Pacific (“Trouble in Paradise,” by Matthew Heller, Oct. 23). He was often moody and temperamental, but that was Brando. Underneath it all there was always mutual respect and a close bond.

After considering various and sometimes quixotic concepts, Brando and I settled upon a plan, and together we submitted a permit application for a project that embodied our shared environmental, cultural and aesthetic concepts. This now serves as the blueprint for a resort, and I am working with his estate and the local authorities to preserve most of the atoll as a marine sanctuary.

Creating an eco-resort on an isolated and remote atoll presents major technical, logistical and financial challenges. But if successful, we will have provided financial security for Brando’s heirs while at the same time achieving Brando’s wishes for protecting the atoll and creating a resort in harmony with the environment and local culture.

Heller concluded by stating that some of the “old-timers” are not happy that the resort will carry Brando’s name. But he neglected to mention that Brando himself authorized the building permit application for the hotel, so I believe Brando would not have objected to us naming it in his honor.

I have lived in Tahiti for 20 years. This is my home. I share Marlon Brando’s vision for Tetiaroa and his love of the islands and their people. Perhaps this is why he chose me to fulfill his dream.

Richard Bailey

President

Tahiti Beachcomber SA

Papeete, Tahiti