What Are the Disadvantages of Film Tourism?

By Michael Ferguson

Film tourism is a growing trend where people travel to locations that have been featured in movies and TV shows. While it can be exciting to visit places where our favorite films and shows were filmed, there are some disadvantages to film tourism that should be considered.

1. Disappointment with the Reality
One of the biggest disadvantages of film tourism is that often the real-life location doesn’t live up to the expectations set by the movie or TV show.

For example, a scene may have been shot in a studio with special effects added in post-production, making it look much more impressive than it actually is in real life. Tourists may feel disappointed when they arrive at a location and find it underwhelming.

2. Overcrowding
Popular film locations can quickly become overcrowded with tourists, especially if they’ve been featured in a recent blockbuster movie or popular TV series. This can make it difficult to fully enjoy the experience, as you’ll be competing with other tourists for space and views.

3. Damage to Locations
Another disadvantage of film tourism is that too many visitors can cause damage to sensitive locations.

For example, tourists visiting the Scottish Highlands after the release of Outlander caused damage to fragile plant life and historic sites featured in the show. This can lead to restrictions being put in place for future visitors or even permanent damage to these sites.

4. Local Disruption
Film crews often disrupt local communities while filming on location, causing inconvenience and disruption for locals who live there permanently. This can lead to resentment towards tourists who come looking for a glimpse of their favorite actors or locations.

The Bottom Line

While there are certainly advantages to film tourism – such as boosting local economies – there are also some significant disadvantages that should be considered before embarking on a film-themed vacation. It’s important for both tourists and locals alike to be mindful of the potential negative impact that film tourism can have on communities and locations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, film tourism can be a great way to explore new places and experience the magic of our favorite movies and shows. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential downsides, including disappointment with reality, overcrowding, damage to locations, and disruption to local communities. By being mindful of these issues, we can help ensure that film tourism is sustainable and beneficial for everyone involved.