Columbo Av David Martin-Jones

<p>Columbo is fifty years old. A global smash in the 1970s, it is now a cult TV favourite. What is the reason for this enduring popularity? In this fascinating exploration of a television classic, David Martin-Jones argues that <i>Columbo</i> reveals how our current globalized world – of 24/7 capital, invasive surveillance and online labour – emerged in the late 20th century. Exploring everything from the influences on Falk’s iconic acting style to the show’s depiction of Los Angeles, Martin-Jones illuminates how our attention is channelled, via technologies like television and computers, to influence how we perform, learn, police and locate ourselves in today’s world. <i>Columbo</i> emerged alongside shows like <i>Kojak</i> and <i>The Rockford Files</i>, but re-viewing the series today reveals how contemporary television hits – from <i>Elementary</i> to <i>The Purge</i> – continue to shape how and why we pay attention 24/7.</p>