Living the story

As global digital media consumption increases, screen content has become a progressively influential factor shaping travel behaviour. This case study explores how perceived authenticity enhances film tourism experiences. Drawing on an inductive grounded theory approach, the case generates a context-sensitive conceptual model that captures how film tourists perceive and enact authenticity in film-induced tourism settings. Following rigorous data analysis, three core dimensions emerged: (1) visual fidelity and narrative congruence, (2) emotional immersion and narrative embodiment, and (3) the destination’s cultural and social atmosphere. Participants described powerful experiences—such as media-triggered recall, parasocial engagement, and scene re-enactment—enabled by authentic settings, hospitality, and cuisine. Findings extend authenticity theory by linking object-based and existential dimensions with affective and performative tourist behaviour. Practically, the study offers actionable insights for destination managers and tourism operators on designing emotionally resonant and culturally meaningful experiences. By focusing on a non-Western context, it advances understanding of how perceived authenticity shapes film-induced tourism experiences and demonstrates how such experiences can foster intercultural understanding and dialogue.