Exploring the Perceived Influence of Cinema on Destination Image, Destination Attributes and the Intention to Travel

Abstract

Cinema has long been acknowledged as a cultural mediator capable of shaping perceptions, imagery and attitudes associated with tourism destinations. However, empirical evidence regarding its influence on destination perceptions beyond single case studies remains limited. This quantitative exploratory study investigates how individuals perceive the influence of cinema on travel decision, mediated by destination image and destination attributes. An online survey was administered to 262 participants, examining patterns of cinema consumption, attention to filmed landscapes and self-reported predisposition to travel after watching films. Descriptive and inferential analyses do not demonstrate direct relationships among cinema consumption, destination image, destination attributes and travel decision. Rather, findings suggest that cinema may operate as an indirect experiential and symbolic stimulus within a longer decision-making trajectory. The study contributes a broader empirical perspective to the field of film-induced tourism and highlights the need for further research addressing contextual, motivational and demographic variables that may mediate these relationships.