Thailand is just finishing up their casino law and if approved, 5 casinos will be allowed to operate in the country one being owned by Melco Resorts. Do you think that a show can influence not only the tourists but as well as the government's perception and decisions about gambling and casinos? Or do you think the impact of a film or a show isn't enough to sway people?
I agree with you!!!!
The media can indeed have a significant impact on the way gambling is perceived and promoted. The films you mentioned do indeed create a glamorous and exciting image of casinos and certainly influence public perception and these portrayals can attract people who seek the excitement and sophistication associated with these environments.
In the case of Melco Resorts, the company is strategically using the popularity of the series to promote tourism and gambling in Thailand. The setting in a luxury resort will inspire many viewers to visit the country and experience the excitement of the casinos portrayed in this production... in my opinion, a clever marketing approach.
Of course, there are "buts" and negative factors in all of this... the influence of the media is just one factor among many that shape people's perceptions and decisions and the decision to legalize and regulate gambling involves complex considerations, including social, economic and moral concerns. So the media can influence, but does not exclusively determine, government policy. Although... the government should certainly support it as it is also very interested in this type of tourism.