Abstract:
This Masters dissertation considers the tourism niche of film-induced tourism (FIT)
within the broader realm of heritage and cultural tourism (HCT). It sets out to identify
the scope of different types of FIT, focusing specifically on “on-location film-induced
tourism” (OLFIT). The genesis of FIT in the related niche of literary tourism is
explored, thereby explaining the history and development of FIT. Furthermore, this
dissertation sets out to identify key elements that are recognised as necessary for
the functioning of OLFIT as well as those factors that determine the success and
sustainability of OLFIT endeavours. Both the elements and factors necessary for
OLFIT’s success and sustainability are elucidated with the use of international case
studies, including The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies which are regarded
as best-practice. A flow diagram-model has been devised to illustrate the
interconnectivity of these elements and factors and can be applied to other
situations. This is followed by an examination of the film and tourism industry in
South Africa, thereby evaluating the potential of the country as an OLFIT destination.
