The magic of filmmaking is such that Bishop Street can be made to look like New York City. In fact, the entire lush state can be a magical backdrop. But Hollywood producers have always questioned whether Hawai'i had enough production facilities to host major shoots.

Now with the completion of two new buildings at the Diamond Head Studios, the state can assure producers that Hawai'i can most definitely compete.

The state-run studio was beefed up with new production offices and technical facilities that make Hawai'i an attractive option. The state already offers tax incentives for companies to shoot here; the new additions to Diamond Head's 7.5-acre site give producers another reason to choose Hawai'i for their next project.

There's no shortage of memorable movies and TV shows shot here. If you don't remember "Jake and the Fatman," then certainly you remember "Hawaii 5-0." Or perhaps Adam Sandler's "Fifty First Dates."

All were filmed in part at Diamond Head Studios.

The production crew of one of TV's top shows, "Lost," has already moved in. That show continues to be the state's best advertisement to lure not just tourists, but other TV and movie professionals looking for a good place to do business.

That's good news for our economy, and for TV and movie fans everywhere.