From its world renowned beaches, to ancient temple ruins, the diversity of filming locations in Thailand is endless. Coupled with a multi-lingual, professional production services industry, modern backlots and equipment AND an economy which offers "value" for production budgets, it makes sense to film in Thailand.
Bangkok, Thailand July 19, 2009 - Why should you believe me? I'm just an entertainment journalist. Despite my many years reporting the news, attending and participating in film festivals and markets, and meeting with "players" in the film industry of the World, I've never written a screenplay or made a movie.
But I have interviewed hundreds of people and for the last sixteen years domiciled here in Thailand, have found that EVERYONE likes to come to Thailand to make movies.
Could the answer be as easy as Academy Award winning director Danny Boyle (pictured) maintained when I asked him why he liked filming in Thailand (The Beach 2000): "I like working with the Thai people," he said.
Certainly, Thailand is renowned for the smiles, the warmth and the hospitality of its populace but that can not be the only reason for taking a production on the road to film in Thailand.
Another Academy Award winner, William Hurt who was in Thailand shooting Shadows, when asked what he thinks of Thai production services said, "They are phenomenal!"
Tom Waller, is managing director of De Warrenne Pictures one of the leading international production companies in Thailand. De Warrenne provides full production services and logistics support for foreign films shooting in Thailand.
Tom says, "The main strengths of the film industry here are that Thailand offers excellent value for money in terms of the cost of crew labor and services for foreign films wishing to shoot here.
By coming here to shoot your production using local equipment and crews, you can expect to save money on your budget and achieve high production values - the skillset and work experience is here and there is already an infrastructure as Thailand has its own healthy film industry. It is also easy to accommodate crews and provide logistics support - almost everyone involved in the film industry here has some grasp of the English language.
Chinese director Zhimin Sheng (Fu sheng, Bliss 2006) agrees the lower cost of shooting in Thailand is a factor for shooting here: “If I’m making a thriller, for example, I’ll shoot in Thailand, not China, in order to cut costs.”
Hong Kong based Pulse Films director/producer Patrice Paujal answering the question of why he likes to shoot here said, "Thailand is a tapestry. You have everything here – Bangkok itself is like a movie set".
One of the most prolific British directors (now domiciled in Thailand), David Winters (The King Maker 2005) who produced and directed over 70 films in an 8 year period agrees with Tom's assessment: "There are many opportunities for shooting films in Thailand: mainly because of the cost of the labor in producing films here. Another main reason is there is already an infrastructure existing here as there are many local films made each year. You have a choice of many post-production houses, as well as many labs.
Thailand is the only real center for film making in all of South East Asia. Many other countries talk about making International films, but they do not have the opportunity to work on many and so it is more of a dream than a reality.
For me Bangkok is the center of all serious business in this country and so I prefer to base myself here. Plus there are many more people to choose from when you are making a film. Also, all of the equipment houses are here, so if you need some equipment or lights right away you can get it without stopping the production. Bangkok to me is like the LA of Thailand."
Other film makers agree that film making facilities in Bangkok are world class.
Singaporean director Jack Neo (I Not Stupid 2002, Money Not Enough 2006) said on a recent trip to Thailand: "The theaters and facilities in Bangkok are excellent. I do my post-production work here. ... I’m ...amazed by the facilities!"
Agreeing with Jack was Malaysian actor-director Hans Isaac (City Sharks 2003): "We always come to Bangkok for our post-production work, but it was on this trip, that we realized how advanced, the film facilities are, and how many options we have!
So what more can I say?
Yes, Thailand has beautiful landscapes, from mist covered mountains to pristine beaches and underwater wonderlands – from "moonscaped" riverbeds to eons old dinosaur grave yards. Whatever you are looking for in your film shoot – whatever your budget level, you can find it and film it here in Thailand.
But as I said earlier, don't believe me – believe them!
Friday, July 17, 2009
Bangkok, Thailand – July 9 2009 - In an ongoing effort to inform and upgrade standards of the private sector foreign film production services, the Thailand Film Office, Department of Tourism Development, Ministry of Tourism and Sports held a training program July 1-3 2009 in Bangkok.
The Seminar brought together representatives of the Immigration Bureau and Department of Labor (visa types and application process for working foreign crews); Bureau of the Royal Household (filming in locations under the Royal Household's care); Customs Department (process and procedure for import of equipment and materials used in filming); Fine Arts Department (rules and regulations for filming within its jurisdictions); Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (rules and regulations for filming within National Parks); Revenue Department (tax rates, payment methods and double taxation laws); State Railway of Thailand and Airports Authority of Thailand (rules and regulations for filming within their jurisdictions); Civil Affairs Department (filming in military jurisdictions and request for weaponry support) and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (filming in Bangkok).
Over 200 representatives of the film production services sector attended the meetings, information from which will help increase their understanding of processes for foreign production filming in Thailand so they can advise foreign productions better.
In her opening statements, Ms. Wanasiri Morakul, director of the Film Office noted that foreign productions in Thailand generate income of over US$ 56.8 million a year plus an undetermined amount that gets spent and filters into the grassroots economy in the provinces.
In addition, it was announced that the number of foreign productions filmed on location in Thailand in 2008 was at an all time high (526 productions which include documentaries, TV & film, music videos and commercials) with 2009 numbers at the half year (236) looking to meet if not beat last year's total. Overall foreign location shoots contributed US$49 + million annual business in the Kingdom.
In '08 Japanese (134) and Indian (123) productions led the way followed by European productions (106) and others.
GREETINGS from Thailand and WELCOME to our new monthly e-magazine.
In an ever increasing competitive market and a media world which emphasizes the negative, the Thailand Film Office, (Thailand's Film Commission) under the Office of Tourism Development , Ministry of Tourism and Sports, recognizes the need to provide factual, up-to-date information about Thailand as a filming destination.
Why?The answer is simple, like hundreds of other Film Commissions around the world, we recognize that filming in Thailand creates revenue for the country.
In fact, in 2008 Thailand's international film location revenue increased approximately 88% over the same period in 2007 (US $57.8 million vs. $30.63 million).
In 2007, we saw 523 films produced in Thailand while in 2008 526 were produced. So far, in 2009, 119 productions have taken place (productions include features, documentaries, music videos, commercials, and TV series).
So why are we telling you this?
Because we want you to know that Thailand is "Open for Business" and the problems of the past are – problems of the past.
Our democracy is a young 76 years and problems you hear about and read about, how are they different than government changes in Italy or union strikes in France or in other nations?
They are different in that the backbone of political change here in Thailand has always been democratic.
So whatever you hear, check with us first, we'll tell you what's really going on!
One last thing, our government has set 2008 – 2009 as Thailand Investment Year.They outlined new incentives for international investors in several different industrial areas, including tourism and filmmaking. These areas of investment are still not quite clear but you can be sure the Thailand Film Office will announce this information to the international film community when appropriate.
In the meantime, we urge you, when thinking about filming on location, think of Thailand.
Our genuine warm hospitality and value for money economy can, depending on the project, be as much as 20 - 30% savings from filming on your home turf.
WELCOME TO THAILAND!
What people are saying about filming in Thailand?
When asked what he thinks of Thai production services, Academy Award winning actor William Hurt, who concluded shooting "Shadows" in Thailand in early March said, "They were phenomenal!"
Hong Kong based Pulse Films director/producer, Patrice Paujal, described the atmosphere in Asia among film makers as "pulsating"."There is a buzz happening all over Asia", he said.
As for Thailand, answering the question of why he likes to shoot here, Patrice said, "Thailand is a tapestry. You have everything here – Bangkok itself is like a movie set".
Tom Waller, director of Bangkok based -De Warrenne Pictures who did location work for "The Prince and Me 4", works closely with Hollywood based Millennium Films and Nu Image Productions.
Tom said that these two companies like Thailand because "As long as productions can be brought in on schedule and under budget - they are happy. You can do that filming in Thailand."
Meet Our Staff
Every month in an attempt to have you learn more about our office and our staff, we will introduce a staff member from our office or the Ministry. This month it is our privilege to have interviewed the director of the Thailand Film Office, Ms. Wanasiri Morakul.
Film in Thailand (FiT): Has the Thai government initiated any new developments to support Thailand as a Filming location?
Ms Morakul (WM): The government is considering a number of measures to make Thailand more competitive in line with other popular film location destinations. While the cost of filming in Thailand is cost effective compared to other countries, the Cabinet has assigned relevant agencies including the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to establish a set of appropriate measures which create incentives such as tax returns, etc.
FiT: Please tell us something about yourself.
WM: Well let's see, I have a Master of Arts in Mass Communication from Chulalongkorn University. My first
professional position was in 1982 at the Radio Thailand, National Public Relations Policy and Planning Division and the Thailand Film Office which was then in the Government Public Relations Office.
In 2002, the Thailand Film Office came under the Office of Tourism Development, Ministry of Tourism and Sports where I was named Chief of Film Business Promotions.In 2006, I became the director of the Thailand Film Office .
I guess you can say I have seen the Office evolve/grow over the years.
As for hobbies, I am afraid they are all work related, watching movies and spending time on-line.
FiT: Tell us something about your staff (how many, broken into what departments, etc.)
WM: We have a staff of 13 people.They are divided into 3 work groups
1. General Affairs Section
2. Cooperation and Special Affairs Section
3. Film Business Promotion Section
4. Shooting Permit Consideration Section
But of course, filmmakers will hardly interact individually with staff behind the scenes as
they will interface first with our "One Stop Office" where all information about filming in Thailand can be found.
FiT: Does the Film Office have any plans for staying competitive during the world economic slowdown?
WM:The competitive nature of our business is such that we need to constantly watch trends and advance our location.It is not only during the economic slowdown.
We do plan on being more visible at international film festivals, exhibitions and film markets.
I think the very liberal attitude the government is taking on investment into the film industry here in Thailand is good in that it will allow for a greater number of facilities to be established throughout the country, especially outside of Bangkok in other heavily filmed areas such as Phuket and Chiang Mai.
As well, we want to build confidence in our location destination.We know that everyone knows Thailand.But we want everyone to know that we have highly trained crews, modern equipment and a hospitable culture that welcomes foreigners. We will be working on ways to provide quantifiable information to those that wish to film in Thailand proving we are value for money.
What's Up Private Sector?
Recently Mustard Films (J Dejprasert - topp.mf@gmail.com) assisted Japan's EPOS Visa credit card commercial. Created by Japanese advertising agency Enjin, shot in Bangkok by Mustard Films and Kirameki Inc and directed by Cannes finalist F with special effects and done at CG house foret-bleue with post assistance from Bangkok's Oriental Post.
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Legend Films (Mutita Na Songkla - air@legendfilms-thai.com) provided full production services for Three Needles, Rambo IV and Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun Li.
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In April 2009, China International (Eric Chu - cipathai@gmail.com) worked on a documentary drama about a fishing village in Ranong, which is in the southern part of Thailand.
Those of you in the USA, watch the Travel Channel this Spring for "Bridget’s Sexiest Beaches" which in February 2009, filmed in Phuket Thailand with the assistance of Persona Travel Ltd. (persona@phuket.ksc.co.th) based in Phuket.The series covers the most beautiful beaches in the world.
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Full service post production facility Technicolor Bangkok launched its new Digital Imaging department in Bangkok March 19, 2009 providing digital intermediate (DI), HD mastering and restoration services.
Film Me
Many of you have been to Thailand before and know our most filmed locations (Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Ayutthaya). Each month, our "Film Me" section will try and focus on a new, interesting and attractive location for filming.
For example, in this edition, we would like to briefly mention a couple of railroad shoot opportunities.
In April, Thailand-Lao opened the first railway service linking the Thai border and the Lao border – an interesting opportunity for filming over or along the Mekong River.
And speaking of trains, filming a "Who Done It" murder mystery or a turn-of-the-century love story, or want to relive life in the late 19th century? Don't miss the Eastern & Oriental Express which runs throughout the region from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand to Vientiane in Lao. (http://www.orient-express.com/web/eoe/eoe_a2a_home.jsp)
This year, The Thailand Film Office will introduce new film locations in the North-Eastern part of Thailand including Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Nong Khai, Udon Thani and Ubon Ratchathani since there are a variety of historic, natural and man-made sites in these areas.
Some of the areas are not well-known by tourists and sparsely populated making it easy for crews to shoot, especially with modern vans available for transport of equipment and crews.
Apart from the benefit of the locations themselves working in these rural areas is worthwhile as expenditures are less than Bangkok and the hospitality of rural people is so much like the Thailand of yesteryear.
Watch for our May issue as we introduce Thailand's own "Moon Scape" in Kaeng Tana National Park north of Udon.
Pitch It to Me
In this section of our e-magazine every month, we will get a little creative. Since this publication is going out to screen & TV writers as well as film directors and producers from around the world, we want to offer up positive story lines about Thailand and things Thai.
Whenever we turn on the TV or watch a movie and Thailand is the subject, the story line is undoubtedly about prostitution, pornography, pedophilia or drugs. No one denies that these things exist here. BUT no more here than anywhere else. Why always write about the negative, why not the positive?
As a matter of fact, Thailand has a very conservative culture where the above mentioned 3 "p's" and a "d "are unlawful.
So, accentuating the positive may we suggest the following story lines:
1. Instead of sending out for Chinese food, Thai food, we know, is as popular. Pad Thai (Thai fried noodles), Tom Yum Goon (Spicy shrimp soup), Khao Pad Boo (Fried Rice with Crab) are all popular, filling dishes that make as much sense eating with your partner or family in front of the "tube" as any you see on TV.
And hey, all Orientals DO NOT look alike. Having a Chinese person play Thai, even if they speak the language – don't you think we can't tell the difference.It's like having a person raised in UK trying to play someone from New York.
2. Did you know that insurance companies in Europe and the USA are now paying people to have operations done here in Thailand?Yes, medical tourism is quite popular here, to the point that all major hospitals have international patient departments where hospital service personnel speak several languages.
So, why not a visiting intern from Thailand in the ER honing up on latest technology and skills? Or a story about a heart patient that will soon be transferred to Thailand for a heart operation or a young heart transplant patient that received the transplant from a Thai. Could the calm, peaceful, tranquil life he/she now leads be the result of their donor's strict Buddhist lifestyle?
Please Film Thailand but also please include Thailand in your scripts.
