For nearly a century, filmmakers have found inspiration in Hawaii’s natural landscapes, breathtaking terrain, multicultural communities and urban locales. Film production is a cornerstone of Hawaii’s creative economy, whose sectors including arts, culture, film, television, digital media and music contribute on average $4 billion to Hawaii’s economy annually.

Increased revenues in traditional production are at a record high, with local digital media, animation and video game publishing sectors reaching a critical mass. Hawaii has begun to emerge as a leading production center for global media, with clients from Hollywood and the Asia-Pacific.

In 2010, Hawaii has seen a historic rise in film, television and digital media productions totaling an estimated $391 million in production expenditures, with an estimated impact of more than $600 million to help boost Hawaii’s economy. This would not be possible without the commitment and collaboration between state and county governments, industry and businesses and communities.

The increased activity can be attributed to Hawaii’s reputation as a film-friendly destination; tax incentives on qualified productions; a trusted, professional workforce of actors and production technicians; and the professionalism of the state and county film offices past and present.

2010 marks a milestone with 10 feature films from major studios and local production companies, four television series ("Hawaii Five-0," "LOST," "Off the Map," and "Reign of the Dinosaurs"), two television series pilots ("Hawaii Five-0" and "The Event"), two television series episodes ("Modern Family" and the Korean drama "Divine Hero"), numerous independent films, reality shows, commercials, catalogue shoots and sports programs.

Feature films shot here this year will be released over the next two years, keeping Hawaii top-of-mind for audiences worldwide. They include "Hereafter," "Just Go For It," "The Descendants," "Soul Surfer," "Battleship," "Caesar: Rise of the Apes," "Journey to the Center of the Earth 2," "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides," and "Get a Job."

These accomplishments were achieved despite the unprecedented worldwide financial downturn and reduced staffing in the Hawaii Film Office due to the state’s revenue shortfall.

We recognize that filming in the islands can create temporary inconveniences for residents and businesses, particularly when roads and highways are closed. The state and county film offices work closely with production companies and government agencies to minimize inconveniences and provide ample notice if there is a need to close a street, highway or other public venue during filming. We appreciate the public’s understanding and patience, and welcome feedback on how we can improve.

While it was difficult to see dedicated colleagues laid off as a result of the economic crisis, I am proud of how the remaining staff stepped up to ensure the needs of our growing film industry are met, while improving the efficiency of our services.

The Creative Industries Division and the Hawaii Film Office remain committed to continuing the momentum. This record year has underscored that Hawaii is a great place to do business, and we should be proud of our core creative community that has put Hawaii on the map as one of the world’s top filming destinations.