South Florida is about to get a heavy dose of 1980s nostalgia. The Miami-Dade County Commission has approved a $1 million subsidy to support the production of the upcoming Miami Vice film, which will star Austin Butler and Michael B. Jordan as the iconic detectives Sonny Crockett and Ricardo Tubbs. The movie, tentatively titled Miami Vice '85, is slated for a theatrical release in 2028.
The decision, made during a recent commission meeting, is part of a broader effort to attract big-budget productions to the region. County officials argue that the film will inject millions into the local economy, create jobs, and reinforce Miami's status as a global entertainment hub. The production is expected to spend at least $10 million in direct local expenditures before receiving any of the subsidy, a safeguard designed to ensure the investment pays off.
Public funds under scrutiny
But not everyone is cheering. The subsidy comes from the same county budget that funds essential services like police, parks, and public transportation—services that have recently faced cuts. Bus routes were trimmed even as fares increased, leaving many residents frustrated. For them, spending $1 million on a Hollywood movie feels like a luxury they can't afford.
“We're cutting bus service, but we have a million dollars for a movie?” asked María González, a longtime Miami resident and community activist. “That money could go toward fixing our streets, improving our parks, or helping our small businesses. Instead, it's going to a film that will make millions anyway.”
Supporters of the subsidy, however, see it as an investment in the city's brand. They point to the original Miami Vice series, which in the 1980s turned Miami into a global symbol of style and glamour. The new film, they argue, will do the same, attracting tourists and putting Miami back in the spotlight. “This is about more than a movie,” said Commissioner Javier Ortiz. “It's about showing the world that Miami is a place where culture and commerce thrive.”
The debate also touches on the portrayal of the city. Some officials note that recent video games set in Miami have been criticized for glorifying crime. The Miami Vice film, by contrast, shows law enforcement taking down organized crime—a narrative that aligns with the county's efforts to promote a safe and just image.
For the Latino community, the film carries particular weight. Miami is a majority-Latino city, and the original series was a cultural touchstone for many who grew up watching it. The new movie, with its 1980s setting, is expected to feature the city's vibrant Latin influences, from its music to its architecture. It's a chance for the community to see itself represented on the big screen in a positive light.
Still, the controversy highlights a broader tension in Miami-Dade: the balance between promoting economic development and addressing the needs of everyday residents. As the county continues to grow, questions about how to allocate public funds will only become more pressing.
In the meantime, the Miami Vice production is moving forward. Filming is expected to begin in the coming months, with locations across Miami-Dade, including the iconic art deco districts of South Beach and the streets of Little Havana. The production is also expected to hire local crew members, providing a boost to the region's film industry.
For now, the debate over the subsidy is far from over. Residents and commissioners alike will be watching closely to see if the film delivers on its promises—and whether the $1 million was money well spent.
