After CBS controversially ended NCIS: Hawai’i in 2024, the Hawaii Film Studio was still home to one network TV show — Rescue: HI-Surf. Before that, the production studio hosted Hawaii Five-O (the original and the reboot), Magnum, P.I. (both iterations), Lost, Last Resort, and more. Plus, many movies, like 50 First Dates and Blue Crush, were filmed there. Now that Fox has canceled Rescue: HI-Surf after only one season in 2025, though, zero TV productions currently utilize the Hawaii Film Studio. Without NCIS: Hawai’i, Rescue: HI-Surf, or any other show, it seems like Hawaii’s dying film industry couldn’t be saved.
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Hawaii used to be a dream set for countless blockbusters and TV hits. Think Jurassic Park, Lost, and Hawaii Five-0. But lately, something’s changed. Production trucks are vanishing, casting calls are fewer, and studio lights aren’t shining quite as bright. The once-booming Hawaiian film industry is now facing a harsh reality—it’s dying. And fast.
So what went wrong? And more importantly, is there a way to bring it back? Let’s take a deep dive into what’s really happening behind the scenes.
The Rise and Fall of Filmmaking in Hawaii
A Paradise for Producers—Once Upon a Time
Hawaii wasn’t just a pretty face. It offered diverse landscapes, reliable weather, tax incentives, and a rich cultural backdrop. Filmmakers flocked to the islands for authentic tropical settings without leaving the U.S.
The Golden Era: Peak Popularity in the 2000s
From the late ’90s to the 2010s, Hawaii was hot. Big-budget films like Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides and long-running shows like Hawaii Five-0 weren’t just filmed there—they thrived there. The local economy flourished, and the industry supported thousands of jobs.
Where It All Started to Unravel
The Vanishing Tax Incentives
Hawaii once had competitive tax credits to attract filmmakers. But over the years, other states like Georgia and New Mexico beefed up their incentives—leaving Hawaii in the dust. Budgets matter in Hollywood, and Hawaii became a pricey postcard with little financial return.
Rising Production Costs
Let’s face it—paradise isn’t cheap. Everything from crew wages to transportation and lodging costs more on the islands. For budget-conscious studios, cheaper alternatives with similar scenery (like Thailand or Puerto Rico) became more attractive.
The Pandemic’s Brutal Blow
COVID-19 Brought the Curtain Down
The global pandemic hit every industry hard, but for Hawaii’s film sector, it was catastrophic. Travel restrictions, quarantine mandates, and safety concerns put productions on indefinite hold. Some never resumed. Others relocated permanently.
Hollywood’s Shift to Digital and Virtual Sets
Green Screens Over Green Landscapes
With virtual production becoming more sophisticated (hello, The Mandalorian!), studios can now build entire worlds in a soundstage. That means fewer trips to real-world locations like Hawaii.
Cultural Sensitivities and Backlash
Tensions With Native Hawaiian Communities
Some productions have faced pushback over the misrepresentation or exploitation of native culture and sacred land. The call for authentic storytelling is stronger than ever—and not all studios have been respectful.
Is There Hope for a Comeback?
Yes—But It Won’t Be Easy
Reviving Hawaii’s film industry isn’t impossible, but it needs a serious strategy. Here’s how we can hit play again:
Strategies to Revitalize the Industry
Reinstate Competitive Tax Incentives
States like Georgia dominate the scene today because of robust, reliable tax breaks. Hawaii needs to level the playing field—or get left behind.
Build More Infrastructure
While Hawaii has beautiful locations, it lacks the studio space, sound stages, and post-production facilities that make filming efficient. Investing in these could bring long-term benefits.
Train and Hire Local Talent
Empowering the local workforce is key. Training programs, film schools, and internships can keep the industry sustainable and culturally authentic.
Embrace Indigenous and Local Storytelling
Authentic Voices, Real Impact
Imagine if Hawaii became known for stories by Hawaiians, not just about Hawaii. That’s the kind of shift that would attract new audiences and critical acclaim.
Partnering With Streaming Giants
Netflix and Chill… on the Beach?
Streaming platforms are constantly hunting for unique content and exotic locations. With the right partnerships, Hawaii could become a go-to hub for exclusive digital productions.
Government and Community Collaboration Is Crucial
It Takes a Village—and Some Vision
Legislators, industry pros, and local communities need to sit at the same table. With aligned goals, they can create policies that support both economic growth and cultural integrity.
Eco-Friendly Productions Could Set Hawaii Apart
Sustainability Is the New Standard
By promoting green filmmaking practices—like minimizing waste and protecting natural habitats—Hawaii could attract eco-conscious studios and brands.
Tourism and Film Go Hand-in-Hand
A Movie Can Sell a Million Plane Tickets
Films and TV shows often double as tourism ads. Reigniting the industry could give a big boost to Hawaii’s travel sector, which is still recovering post-COVID.
The Role of Independent Filmmakers
Indies Might Be the Industry’s Lifeboat
While big studios look elsewhere, indie filmmakers are still drawn to Hawaii’s unique charm. Supporting grassroots projects could breathe new life into local cinema.
Final Thoughts: Can Hawaii Be Hollywood Again?
Absolutely. But only if the state adapts, listens, and invests wisely. The tools are there—breathtaking locations, a proud culture, and undeniable talent. All that’s missing is the right script.
Let’s hope it’s not The End—but rather, To Be Continued…
Conclusion: Don’t Fade to Black Just Yet
Hawaii’s film industry may be down, but it’s not out. Like any good movie, the conflict sets the stage for a comeback story. With smart policy changes, community support, and a fresh vision for the future, Hawaii can roll credits on this dark chapter—and start a brand-new reel.
