Movie Induced Tourism and Its Effects on Settlements, a Literature Study

Even though movie tourism as a whole is an area that is somewhat hard to study and measure, it is one of the most interestingly developing branches of tourism, that is aiming for special consumer segments. The former being highlighted by having most related studies attempting to measure the effects of single movies, thus having a hard time establishing a general picture about the consumers that are more keen to movie induced tourism. The aim of our literature study was to explore the main features and characteristics of movie induced tourism, which was conducted by summarizing various literary sources. The systematization of such works and approaches indicates that film tourism has numerous factors in effect concerning both the demand and supply perspective. The main purpose of this study is to explore the theoretical background of movie induced tourism and to aid in setting up the framework for later primary research. From the demand perspective, we search for the motivating factors of travelers, the possible reasons behind the popularity of visiting film related locations (the main appeals of such activities) and the criteria movies must meet to even be considered as such. Looking from the supply standpoint as well, we also seek to find out what film tourism related attractions might possible tourist destinations have, as well as how they might use these movies in their communication; what image elements or symbols are suitable for them to use in their settlement marketing. The results of the study may be useful for further and deeper investigation (meaning primary research), especially for the supplier side of movie induced tourism; that is to gain a better understanding of the very special and diverse consumer segments and filmmakers (and the leading motivators behind their choices of choosing regions and locations to shoot), while also improving their marketing activities, communication and other means to increase the attractiveness of their locations or settlements.