“We've seen it in the movies, let's see if it's true”: Authenticity and displacement in film‐induced tourism

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate what the authors have termed displacement theory (grounded in aspects of authenticity) within the larger phenomenon of film‐induced tourism and to present a clearer understanding of the inherent implications and opportunities for economic development this may bring.

Design/methodology/approach

The objectives are achieved through critical review of previous film tourism literature combined with use of blog and key‐informant interview research. The research follows an interpretive paradigm and address a gap in the film‐induced tourism literature on the area of authenticity and displacement.

Findings

Key research findings revealed that “3” distinct tourist types exist in film tourism which gives rise to “3” distinct markets. Authenticity is important to film tourists, especially when displacement occurs. There is a lack of industry understanding and recognition which ignores film locations when displacement occurs.

Practical implications

There needs to be greater recognition and acceptance of film‐induced tourism, closer collaboration between tourist authorities and film bodies, greater efforts to develop and promote the film locations as opposed to the story settings/places depicted, retention or re‐creation of film sets – building simulacra if necessary to retain more essence of film authenticity and greater use of qualitative research, especially through new and innovative means such as the blog techniques used in this study.

Originality/value

This paper addresses a gap in previous film tourism literature regarding authenticity and displacement and as such makes an original contribution to this field. New innovative methods (using blog research) also bring a fresh approach. This paper will be of value to academics and industry practitioners interested in film‐induced tourism and indeed tourism in general, as well as students studying/researching this important field.

Citation

Bolan, P., Boy, S. and Bell, J. (2011), "“We've seen it in the movies, let's see if it's true”: Authenticity and displacement in film‐induced tourism", Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes, Vol. 3 No. 2, pp. 102-116. https://doi.org/10.1108/17554211111122970