Hawaii, with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, serves as an enchanting backdrop for detective stories. This curated list of 10 films showcases the Aloha State's unique blend of paradise and peril, offering viewers a chance to delve into mysteries set against the backdrop of its lush islands. From classic whodunits to modern thrillers, these films not only entertain but also highlight the diverse allure of Hawaii, making them a must-watch for both detective story enthusiasts and those captivated by the allure of the Pacific.
The Long Goodbye (1973)
Description: Although primarily set in Los Angeles, the film includes scenes in Hawaii, where detective Philip Marlowe investigates a case that leads him to the islands.
Fact: Robert Altman's adaptation of Raymond Chandler's novel is noted for its unconventional approach to the detective genre.
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Magnum Force (1973)
Description: While not set in Hawaii, the film's title and the character's name, Harry Callahan, are a nod to the popular TV series "Magnum, P.I.," which was set in Hawaii.
Fact: This film was part of the "Dirty Harry" series, but it's the only one with a direct connection to Hawaii through its title.
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The Yakuza (1974)
Description: This film, while set in Japan, features scenes in Hawaii, where the protagonist, an ex-cop, meets with his old friend to unravel a kidnapping mystery.
Fact: The film stars Robert Mitchum and was directed by Sydney Pollack, known for his work on "Out of Africa."
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The Ghost and the Darkness (1996)
Description: Although set in Africa, the film's plot involves a detective-like hunt for man-eating lions, reminiscent of the detective work in exotic locales like Hawaii.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of the Tsavo maneaters, and Val Kilmer stars as the engineer tasked with solving the problem.
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The Big Bounce (2004)
Description: A remake of the 1969 film, this version also takes place in Hawaii, following a similar plot of a drifter getting entangled in a murder mystery.
Fact: This version stars Owen Wilson and Morgan Freeman, bringing a more contemporary feel to the story.
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The Descendants (2011)
Description: While not a detective film per se, it involves a man uncovering family secrets in Hawaii, which leads to a personal investigation.
Fact: George Clooney won a Golden Globe for his performance in this film.
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Aloha (2015)
Description: While not a traditional detective film, it involves intrigue and a military contractor in Hawaii, dealing with personal and professional mysteries.
Fact: The film was directed by Cameron Crowe, known for "Jerry Maguire" and "Almost Famous."
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Snatched (2017)
Description: This comedy-thriller involves a mother and daughter kidnapped in Ecuador, but the plot begins in Hawaii, setting the stage for their misadventure.
Fact: The film stars Amy Schumer and Goldie Hawn, marking Hawn's return to the big screen after a long hiatus.
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The Thin Man Goes Home (1944)
Description: While not exclusively set in Hawaii, this film features a sequence where Nick and Nora Charles visit the islands, adding a tropical twist to their detective escapades.
Fact: This was the fifth film in the "Thin Man" series, and it's one of the few where the couple leaves New York for a vacation.
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The Big Bounce (1969)
Description: Set in Hawaii, this film follows a drifter who gets involved in a complex scheme involving a judge, a land developer, and a beautiful woman, all while trying to solve a murder.
Fact: The film was remade in 2004 with Owen Wilson and Morgan Freeman, but the original captures the essence of 60s Hawaii.
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