Television: Hinterland- Social/cultural context

Definition of Hinterland

Hinterland is a Welsh noir police detective drama series. The setting of the series, in Aberystwyth, is essential to the tone and mood of the show.
Hinterland is a joint production from S4C and BBC Wales, presenting bilingual elements, with English and Welsh versions.

The Socio-Cultural Context of Hinterland

The series embodies many aspects of Welsh culture, portraying this nuanced and rich culture beyond the stereotypical view often found in media.
Much of Hinterland is based around the landscape of rural Wales. The backdrop of rugged coastlines and hills frames the characters and their stories, becoming an essential character in itself.
The series’ prominent display of multilinguality, mainly that of English and Welsh, reflects the bilingual reality of contemporary Wales. This feature not only gives the series a realistic edge but also aids in promoting Welsh language and culture.

Hinterland and Welsh Identity in Media

Hinterland marks an important step in the representation of Welsh culture and identity in media. It portrays Wales beyond the usual stereotypes, presenting it as a multifaceted and contemporary society.
The authenticity in language, setting, and characterisation makes Hinterland a form of national cinema, distinctly placing Wales on the international television map.
This series rebrands rural Wales from a peripheral, often overlooked region to a vibrant backdrop teeming with compelling narratives.

Impact of Hinterland on Society

Hinterland has advanced tourism opportunities for the locales it was shot in, adding economic value to the rural regions.
The success of the show indicates public acceptance and celebration of cultural diversity in storytelling, potentially paving the way for more multicultural and multilingual media content.
The shift from metropolitan to rural settings in crime drama, as seen in Hinterland, helps to broaden viewer perspectives, enriching the typically city-centric genre with unique rural color and complexity.

Understanding Hinterland: Takeaways

Instead of assessing Hinterland merely as entertainment, you should consider it as a cultural artifact. It offers deep insights into Welsh culture, society, and identity in a globalised media landscape.
Recognise the series’ significance in the diversification of media, pushing boundaries in terms of location, language use, and thematic exploration.
Use Hinterland as an example to discuss the media’s power in shaping impressions of a culture or place, and its potential in promoting cultural and linguistic diversity.