For the Sake of Film Pilgrims and Film Travellers: The Impact of Laskar Pelangi and Ada Apa Dengan Cinta?2 on Local Economies

Abstract

This research looks at how films contribute to the local economy, particularly their multiplier effects on its various sub-sectors. It focuses on Laskar Pelangi (2008, with 4.719.453 spectators) in Belitung Island  and Ada Apa Dengan Cinta? 2 (2016, with 3.665.509 spectators) in Yogyakarta and surroundings. This study argues that the analysis of tourism affected by both films is complementary: Laskar Pelangi case illustrates the macro conditions of tourism growth, while AADC2 better explains the micro situations. The researcher used a mixed-method approach, qualitative and quantitative, by combining statistical data with key person interviews and participant observation. This study compares the situation before and after the films' release and patterns, trends, and anomalies amongst similar data. We identified two types of tourists: film pilgrims (penziarah film), film fans who visit locations specifically related to the films they love and seek the same experiences as the characters in said films, and film travellers (pelancong film) those who come after attracted by word-of-mouth, promotions, and innovation, even though they have not even watched the films. Belitung is the perfect example of a place where film travellers and pilgrims can gather. Meanwhile, the categorization of film pilgrims is found in the majority of visitors to AADC2-related sites. The authors have demonstrated the significant impacts of Laskar Pelangi and AADC2 on their respective shooting locations, particularly their multiplying effect on the local economy, including job and business creation. In this context, both films not only created tourism destinations but also contributed significantly toward economic growth at the provincial or municipal level.