A live-action “Lilo and Stitch” and “Moana.” “NCIS: Hawaii” and “Rescue HI-Surf.” “Temptation Island.” Those high-profile movies, TV and Netflix projects were all filmed at least partially in Hawaii last year. All sought and received Hawaii state tax credits reimbursing productions for a portion of their spending.
“Lilo and Stitch” was a major global hit, raising hopes for filming on a sequel in the islands. “Moana” will be released next year. But in a blow to the islands’ film industry, “NCIS: Hawaii” was canceled last year after three seasons, despite its high ratings. “Temptation Island,” filmed on Hawaii since 2019, moved operations to an Italian resort. And “Rescue HI-Surf” was canceled in May, after just one season.
This year, the state’s film business is in a pronounced slump — an