Tampa, Florida has served as the backdrop for many famous films and television shows. From thrilling dramas to hilarious comedies, Tampa's diversity and charm have attracted filmmakers looking to capture its beauty on screen.
In this post, we'll explore five memorable movies and TV shows that left their mark on Tampa. Whether you're a movie buff or simply looking to add a touch of cinematic magic to your next visit to Tampa, this list is the perfect starting point for you.
Hacker
Hacker It is a crime drama set in the 1980s that follows the true story of secret agent Robert Mazur as he works to take down Pablo Escobar's notorious Medellin Cartel. While the majority of the film is set in Miami and Colombia, there are some notable connections to Tampa, Florida.
Scenes were filmed at the now-closed Cephas HotShop, the famous Derby Lane, the Dolphin Motel, the Tampa Theater and Port Tampa. The Infiltrator may not be set entirely in Tampa, but it still manages to leave a mark on the city. So, for all you would-be Tampa residents, don't worry — the streets are safer now, thanks to the work of brave agents like Robert Mazur.
Empire Corridor
While its events take place in Atlantic City during the Roaring Twenties, Empire Corridor, the popular television series, takes an unforgettable detour to sunny Tampa, Florida. In its fourth season, the series explores the lucrative, if murky, world of rum management, a venture that brings several characters to the Tampa Bay area.
Not only does this story offer viewers a place warmer and more exotic than the cold lanes of New Jersey, but it also showcases Tampa's historical connection to the seedy (pun intended) underworld of the Prohibition era.
With scenes that highlight Tampa's tropical landscape and the then-thriving rum trade, Empire Corridor Offers a glimpse into the city's lesser-known role in America's colorful history of Prohibition. For those considering making Tampa their home, rest assured that the only spirits you'll encounter today are the friendly locals!
Good guys
when it comes to Classic mob movies, Good guys It stands out as a cinematic masterpiece. Although the film is primarily set in New York, it has an interesting but lesser-known connection to Tampa, Florida.
This connection unfolds when the characters, seeking to expand their empire, find themselves involved in a scheme involving a Tampa-based company. Although short, the scenes filmed in Tampa add a layer of warmth and color to the film's complex story.
During the appearance of Tampa Good guys Not as large-scale as other cities, it serves as an eerie reminder of how even gangsters cannot resist the allure of Florida's attractive climate and vibrant landscape. Today, Tampa is much more than that Welcoming communities One of Al-Hakim's plans, which promises a wonderful lifestyle away from the world of Henry Hill and his crew.
Edward Scissorhands
In the world of fantasy Edward Scissorhands, Tampa's unique charm is quite evident – but not in the way you might expect. This fairy tale, with its strange and poignant story, was filmed in the Tampa suburb of Lutz, transforming the area into Edward's neighborhood pastel paradise.
The film cleverly combines the area's sunny, inviting setting with its protagonist's poignant dilemmas, offering a metaphorical slice of Tampa's ability to blend diverse elements into something truly special. For those thinking about making Tampa their home, know that the city's neighborhoods may not have topiary masterpieces or homes in a kaleidoscope of color. However, the sense of community and warmth is still evident as well.
Tiger King
Now that the era of the pandemic has hit us, it would be wrong for this list not to include the most notorious Tiger King A documentary that took the world by storm in 2020. While the wild story of Joe Exotic and his eccentric pals is set primarily in Oklahoma, viewers may have noticed glimpses of Tampa sprinkled throughout the series thanks to Carole Baskin's Big Cat Rescue.
From shady business dealings to shocking personalities, Tiger King It is a larger-than-life tale that could only come out of Florida. Although Tampa may not have its own zoo, this city boasts many other exciting attractions and experiences just waiting to be discovered.
