Tourist Aesthetic in Crime Drama
- Mastering Media
- 7 hours ago
- 2 min read
The “tourist aesthetic” in 1980s crime drama refers to the way locations are presented as visually appealing, almost like travel advertising, encouraging audiences to enjoy the setting as much as the narrative. Series such as Bergerac, Miami Vice, and Magnum, P.I. exemplify this trend.
In Bergerac, the island of Jersey is central to the show’s appeal. Wide shots of beaches, harbours, and countryside create a calm, picturesque atmosphere. The setting functions almost as a character, inviting audiences to experience Jersey as a desirable destination. Crime narratives are often balanced with scenic imagery, reinforcing a leisurely, touristic gaze.
Similarly, Miami Vice transforms Miami into a stylised spectacle. Neon lighting, luxury cars, and beachfront locations present the city as glamorous and exotic. The show’s use of music and fashion enhances this aesthetic, making Miami appear aspirational while still serving as a backdrop for crime stories.
Magnum, P.I. takes this further through its setting in Hawaii. Tropical beaches, sunsets, and luxury estates dominate the visuals, creating a strong sense of escapism. The detective narrative is intertwined with leisure and lifestyle, encouraging audiences to enjoy the fantasy of island living.
Other series, such as Dempsey and Makepeace, also contribute by showcasing iconic areas of London. Overall, the tourist aesthetic in 1980s crime drama reflects a shift toward spectacle and escapism, using visually rich settings to attract audiences and enhance the appeal of the genre.
What is meant by the term “tourist aesthetic” in crime dramas of the 1980s?
How does Bergerac use the setting of Jersey to create a tourist aesthetic?
In what ways does Miami Vice present Miami as glamorous and stylised?
How does Magnum, P.I. use its setting in Hawaii to create a sense of escapism?
Why might audiences find the tourist aesthetic appealing in crime dramas?
How does the tourist aesthetic shift the focus of crime dramas away from just narrative and toward visual spectacle?
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