Malta Today reported that the institute has been in the works for several years, but recently received the support of the Minister of Home Affairs, whose Ministry has responsibility for the film industry.

According to a local organizer, McKee agreed to come to Malta because of the untapped potential there. Malta has often been used as a location for foreign films, but has rarely told its own rich story as a crossroads in history. Maltese filmmakers have few opportunities to make their own films, and are more likely to be employed as local crew members.

The Institute will be officially launched on 29 November.