Hawaii Five-0, the iconic CBS police procedural, isn’t perpetually sunny by accident. Filming typically occurs year-round in Oahu, Hawaii, with the main production season spanning from late spring (around May or June) to early fall (around September or October), coinciding with the islands’ drier and sunnier months. This allows for consistent, visually appealing episodes without constant interruptions from heavy rainfall.
Behind the Lens: Understanding the Production Calendar
Understanding the Hawaii Five-0 filming schedule involves considering several factors. While the prime filming window capitalizes on favorable weather, the production demands a near year-round commitment.
The Year-Round Production Cycle
Even though the bulk of outdoor filming is concentrated in the late spring to early fall period, pre-production activities like location scouting, set design, and script writing occur throughout the year. Similarly, post-production – editing, sound mixing, and special effects – continue long after the cameras stop rolling. This creates a constant buzz of activity. Planning for a single episode can take weeks or even months.
Weather Contingencies
Despite meticulous planning, unpredictable Hawaiian weather can sometimes disrupt the shooting schedule. The production team has learned to be adaptable, with contingency plans in place to address unexpected showers or storms. Indoor scenes and smaller, localized shoots can continue even when outdoor conditions are less than ideal.
Impact of Network Scheduling
The broadcast schedule of Hawaii Five-0 also plays a crucial role. The network, CBS, typically aims for a premiere in the fall (usually September), leading to a concentrated filming period in the months leading up to the broadcast. This creates a cyclical pattern, with the most intense filming activity preceding the new season’s launch. Therefore, the intensity of filming often peaks between June and August.
Frequently Asked Questions: Your Guide to Hawaii Five-0 Filming
Here are some commonly asked questions that will help you better understand the behind-the-scenes aspects of Hawaii Five-0‘s production:
FAQ 1: Does the show always film on Oahu?
While Oahu is the primary filming location, Hawaii Five-0 has occasionally ventured to other Hawaiian islands for specific scenes or storylines. However, the vast majority of filming occurs on Oahu, providing a consistent backdrop for the show. This includes utilizing popular locations like Honolulu, Waikiki, and various beaches and parks around the island.
FAQ 2: Are there opportunities to be an extra on the show?
Yes, opportunities exist for local residents to participate as extras. Central Casting Hawaii often posts calls for extras on their website and social media channels. Being an extra can offer a unique glimpse into the filming process, but it requires flexibility and availability. Keep in mind that background actors typically require to be able to respond on short notice.
FAQ 3: How can I find out where they are currently filming?
Unfortunately, specific filming locations are generally not made public in advance to prevent overcrowding and ensure the safety of the cast and crew. However, local residents sometimes stumble upon filming locations by chance. Keep an eye out for film crews and signs indicating that filming is in progress. Remember to be respectful of the production and avoid interfering with their work.
FAQ 4: Does the cast live in Hawaii during filming?
Many of the principal cast members maintain residences in Hawaii during the filming season. This allows them to fully immerse themselves in the island lifestyle and culture, contributing to the show’s authenticity. Others may commute regularly from the mainland.
FAQ 5: Does the weather ever postpone filming?
Yes, inclement weather, particularly heavy rain or storms, can occasionally postpone or alter filming schedules. The production team closely monitors weather forecasts and has contingency plans in place to adapt to changing conditions. This often involves moving indoor scenes ahead of the outdoor ones.
FAQ 6: How long does it take to film one episode of Hawaii Five-0?
The filming of a single episode of Hawaii Five-0 typically takes approximately seven to ten days. This includes time for rehearsals, multiple takes of each scene, and setup between locations. Post-production adds several weeks to the overall timeline.
FAQ 7: Do they film on weekends?
Filming schedules can vary depending on the episode and location, but it’s not uncommon for filming to occur on weekends, especially during peak production periods. The crew works long hours to ensure that the show stays on schedule.
FAQ 8: What permits are required for filming in Hawaii?
Filming in Hawaii requires various permits from state and local agencies, including permits for location use, street closures, and special effects. These permits help to ensure that filming is conducted safely and responsibly, minimizing disruption to the community. The Hawaii Film Office assists productions with navigating the permitting process.
FAQ 9: How much does it cost to film an episode of Hawaii Five-0?
The estimated cost of filming an episode of Hawaii Five-0 can range from $3 million to $4 million or more, depending on the complexity of the storyline, the number of locations used, and the special effects involved. This makes it one of the more expensive procedural dramas to produce.
FAQ 10: Is the show filmed in HD or 4K?
Hawaii Five-0 was filmed in high definition (HD) for its original run. Subsequent reboots also embraced high-definition filming, ensuring a visually appealing experience for viewers. The potential for future productions to utilize 4K resolution is likely, given the advancements in camera technology.
FAQ 11: How does filming Hawaii Five-0 benefit the local economy?
Filming Hawaii Five-0 provides a significant boost to the local economy, generating jobs for local residents, supporting local businesses, and promoting tourism. The show has helped to showcase the beauty of Hawaii to a global audience, attracting visitors from around the world. The production contributes millions of dollars annually to the Hawaiian economy.
FAQ 12: Are there any permanent sets used for filming?
Yes, Hawaii Five-0 utilizes some permanent sets, including the Five-0 headquarters, which are located in a studio. These sets provide a consistent backdrop for recurring scenes and allow for more efficient filming. However, the show also relies heavily on location shooting to capture the diverse landscapes of Oahu.