Hawaii Five-0 Reboot: Plot Elements and Legacy Comparison

Introduction

The Hawaii Five-0 reboot, which aired from 2010 to 2020, shares several plot elements and thematic similarities with the original series that ran from 1968 to 1980. This article explores the key areas of overlap between both series, focusing on their core concept, iconic elements, and specific storylines. The article also includes a detailed analysis of one of the episodes that shares the same plot, comparing the original and the reboot.

Core Concept and Key Similarities

Both the original series and the reboot revolve around an elite police task force in Hawaii specialized in tackling high-stakes crimes, particularly those involving organized crime and drug trafficking. The core concept centers around a group of professionals working to bring justice and protect the islands.

Character Archetypes: The reboot retains several key character archetypes from the original series, such as the tough but charismatic leader Steve McGarrett, played by Alex O'Loughlin. The character's personality and role in the series mirror that of the iconic Jack Lord version. Another key recurring character is Danny Williams, played by directional actor Scott Caan, who has maintained his role as McGarrett's partner in both series.

Iconic Elements

Both series share iconic elements that have become deeply ingrained in the psyche of fans. These include the theme music, which instantly evokes a sense of nostalgia and excitement, and the recurring phrase "FIVE-0." The theme music, especially in the original series, is a prominent and recognizable element that sets the tone for the entire show.

Storylines and Specific Episodes

While the reboot introduces new storylines and modernizes the plots, it occasionally revisits and reinterprets specific storylines from the original series. One notable example of this overlap is the episode "Hookman," which is of particular interest due to its strong similarities between the two versions. This episode stands out as one of the best in the 278 episodes of the original series, with fans universally praising it.

Upon watching the entire reboot series, I noticed a striking similarity to an episode of the original series. Without giving away too much: the villain in the original was more "genuine," which added a layer of depth to the plot. In the reboot, an additional moment at the end of the episode was crafted to create a more impactful and modern conclusion, which would not fit well with the original series' style. These details highlight the acknowledgment and modernization of the original's legacy in the reboot.

Conclusion

While the reboot brings a fresh perspective and contemporary issues, it maintains a strong connection to the enduring legacy of the original Hawaii Five-0 series. The similarities in core concept, character archetypes, and iconic elements demonstrate the enduring appeal of the island-setting crime drama. For fans of the original, this reboot offers a new chapter that honors the series' past while moving it forward into the modern era.

For a detailed comparison of the two versions of "Hookman," refer to the video that interweaves the two episodes. This resource provides a side-by-side analysis that showcases the similarities and the unique elements of each version, allowing viewers to appreciate the evolution of the series.