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HBO project
may start filming
in October

Adding to producers' cost
concerns, any potential local
workers may already be
busy on other jobs

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By Tim Ryan
Star-Bulletin

The on-again, off-again decision to film an HBO Pictures pilot on Oahu leading to a possible series is on again.

HBO officials last week notified state and county film officials that "Lessons Learned," an hourlong Vietnam-era drama, may begin filming in late October. It features an ensemble cast -- as many as 40 -- that centers on a survival school.

HBO executives scouted Oahu last month but returned to Los Angeles without making a decision.

One reason producers have been hesitant about Hawaii are higher costs. The production company did consider less expensive locations, including Australia, but decided the look they were seeking could only be found here, sources said.

Typically, a network pilot filmed in Hawaii costs $3 million to $5 million, though a cable show is less expensive.

The production may have trouble finding local crew. The union for Hawaii's technicians for film, television, stage and theatrical productions this month has all of its film and television personnel working on "Baywatch Hawaii" and "Windtalkers."

"Windtalkers," starring Nicholas Cage and directed by John Woo, begins its 35 days of production Monday at Kualoa Ranch. "Jurassic Park III" begins filming the same day at Dillingham Air Field using another 60 crew members.

"Lessons Learned" will require as many as 60 crew members, but by the time it begins, "Windtalker" should have completed its filming, said Al Burns, business agent for Local 655.

HBO Pictures received a permit in July to base the main set on state property in Maunawili which currently is part of a banana farmers' co-op, behind the Luana Golf Course.

If HBO picks up "Lessons" for a series, 12 more episodes could be filmed on Oahu beginning early next year. HBO officials were not available for comment.