Latest news with #ThailandFilmOffice
Time Out
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out
From Hollywood to Bangkok: Thailand's film boom targets B10 billion revenue
If you've watched enough Hollywood films, you might've noticed that Thailand pops up more often than you'd expect. From action-packed scenes in Tomorrow Never Dies, to the laughs of The Hangover Part II and the dreamy romance of Wong Kar Wai's In the Mood for Love, the country has become a favourite backdrop for international filmmakers. So much so, the Thai government expects over B10 billion in revenue from foreign productions this year alone. According to data from the Department of Tourism's Thailand Film Office (TFO), 279 foreign film projects were shot in the nation between January 1 and June 30, generating B2.8 billion in revenue. These numbers account only for officially permitted productions, which continue to support both the local film industry and the wider tourism sector. Interestingly, the top countries choosing our land for filming aren't from Hollywood. Leading the list are India, South Korea, Japan and China. Popular shooting locations include Bangkok, Pathum Thani and Chon Buri, thanks to their versatile cityscapes and accessibility. So, what makes the kingdom such a cinematic hotspot? A big part of it lies in the diversity of locations. From lush jungles and waterfalls to idyllic islands such as Phuket and Krabi, along with ancient temples, historical towns and futuristic urban settings, it's a filmmaker's dream – all in one place. Beyond the scenery, it's also an affordable destination. Production costs are significantly lower than in the West, local crews and logistics are cost-effective and the favourable exchange rate adds even more value. All of this allows filmmakers to stretch their budgets further with additional special effects or extra shooting days. In 2024, the nation earned B6.6 billion from 491 foreign film productions representing 42 countries. This year, the government is forecasting revenue to reach B10 billion, exceeding its initial target of B7.5 billion and marking a 50% increase from last year. Among recent high-profile shoots, HBO's The White Lotus filmed its latest season here, drawing global attention and a wave of tourists to Koh Samui. Upcoming releases include Jurassic World: Rebirth, now in cinemas and Alien: Earth, a sci-fi series that highlights the capital's urban sprawl, purpose-built sets at Studio Park in Samut Prakan and the scenic landscapes of Surat Thani, Krabi and Phang Nga. While it's still uncertain whether this year's revenue goals will be fully met, one thing is clear: Thailand's growing role as a film location continues to boost its global visibility and tourism appeal. And if you're missing the Land of Smiles, you can satisfy your wanderlust from afar with our roundup of 10 movies to watch when you miss traveling in Thailand.
Bangkok Post
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Bangkok Post
Thailand eyes B10bn from foreign film production
The Thai government expects 10 billion baht in full-year revenue from foreign film productions, deputy government spokesperson Sasikan Watthanachan said on Saturday. Data from the Department of Tourism's Thailand Film Office (TFO), covering Jan 1 to June 30, showed 279 foreign film projects shot in Thailand, generating 2.8 billion baht in production revenue. The figures were based on officially permitted projects, positively impacting the Thai film industry and tourism, Ms Sasikan said. The top countries filming in Thailand were India, South Korea, Japan and China, with popular locations including Bangkok, Pathum Thani and Chon Buri. The TFO estimates the total 2025 revenue will reach 10 billion baht, surpassing the initial goal of 7.5 billion baht. Ms Sasikan said the government continues to promote Thailand as a premiere filming destination. Measures include the 30% cash rebate, which the government is also considering extending. Recent films featuring Thailand include " Jurassic World: Rebirth," now in cinemas, and the science-fiction series " Alien: Earth," which will be available on Disney+ on Aug 13 this year. FX Networks recently dropped the second trailer of shot-in-Thailand 'Alien: Earth'. It features Bangkok landscapes, interior scenes and large sets built The Studio Park in Samut Prakan as well as natural beauty of Surat Thani, Krabi and Phang Nga. The government aims to boost its film industry's international profile further through film festivals and promotional campaigns at major industry events like the Cannes Film Market and Berlin International Film Festival.
