[6SJ7]

The Wire. Great show. Gives a scary look at B’more.

True dat! Sometimes I forget I'm watching actors. Definitely one of the grittiest of police dramas.

[TET1968]

When Homicide, Life On The Street, the black & white version, first appeared on TV, there were only a few brave pioneers willing to move into some old converted factory buildings on Boston Street.

As soon as the show ended, Harbor Condo and rehab demand went through the roof. :) I still think Barry Levenson shorted development stocks during ‘Homicide’s run”.

[Albion Wilde]

The Wire. Great show. Gives a scary look at B’more.

I read a news story years ago that attributed, to the first TV run of "Seinfeld" show ('89 - '98), a lower crime rate and more confidence among the New York City public for going out at night. The show displayed people of all ages enjoying the sidewalks, theaters, stores, restaurants, etc -- the city was a positive character in the show. Giuliani's tenure ('94 - '01) was responsible for a huge improvement; but the article implied that the improvements began earlier.

Other studies have shown, and it's only logical, that negative media images also breed more fear and crime. Most shows in which the city is a character are horrifying.

Cold Case = Philadelphia
CSI New York
CSI Miami (it has become terribly violent)
Flashpoint = Toronto
Law and Order = NY
Southland = LA
Sopranos = Northern NJ