Thailand’s film industry and tourism sector are experiencing growth, fueled by both original Thai productions and international projects filming in the country. Officials are working to sustain this momentum, capitalizing on the success of films like “Pee Mak” and the increased visibility from shows like “The White Lotus.”
Filmmakers Nithee Seeprae, Cod Satrusayang, Raymond Phathanavirangoon and Banjong Pisanthanakun recently discussed the rising prominence of Thai cinema at the Toronto International Film Festival. Pisanthanakun, whose film “Inherit” premiered at TIFF, highlighted the opportunity for Thai horror to reach a global audience. He stated, “It’s one of the best film festivals in the world, and I’m so excited that my film got the chance to premiere.” Pisanthanakun’s “Pee Mak” remains Thailand’s highest-grossing film, and his work, along with films like “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies,” has helped establish Thailand’s presence internationally. The latter was the first Thai film shortlisted for the Best International Film Oscar.
Producer and SEAFIC Script Lab founder Raymond Phathanavirangoon noted a “new energy” among Thai filmmakers, attributing it to both domestic successes and the influx of international productions such as “The Creator” and “Jurassic World: Rebirth.” He explained, “Both sides go hand-in-hand to show people what Thailand actually has to offer, especially in terms of cinema.”
The HBO series “The White Lotus,” which filmed its third season in Thailand, has significantly impacted tourism. TSixtySix studio head Cod Satrusayang, who worked on the series, said creator Mike White intended the season to be a “love letter” to Thai culture, featuring Thai actors, traditional dances, food, and locations. Following the show’s depiction of Koh Samui, online interest in the island spiked by 88%, and hotel reservations increased by 44%.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) launched the “Amazing Locations: From Scene to Scenic” campaign to leverage this increased visibility and encourage both tourism and further film production in the country. Deputy Governor of TAT, Nithee Seeprae, stated, “We try to promote both sides. I hope when audiences see a Thai movie or a movie shooting in Thailand, they will follow the movie to Thailand. And of course, also, the ‘Scene to Scenic’ tries to encourage all the producers to shoot in Thailand too.”
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