Thailand has enamored Hollywood filmmakers for decades. With its stunning beaches, rich culture, and bustling cities, it’s no wonder that Thailand has been featured in countless movies and television shows. From the Beach to Hangover II, here’s a look at how Hollywood has captured Thailand’s imagination.
The Beach (2000)
Leonardo DiCaprio’s film The Beach was filmed on location in the Thai Islands of Koh Phi Phi and Phuket, and it brought the beauty of Thailand to the world in a big way. The movie showed how Thailand is not just about cheap booze and endless parties, but also about breathtaking scenery and a relaxed way of life. The Beach sparked an interest in backpacking, and many tourists flocked to Thailand to explore the country’s many natural wonders.
The Hangover II (2011)
The Hangover II takes place in Bangkok and pushes the limits of comedy as the Wolfpack gets themselves into ridiculous predicaments throughout the city. While the film received criticism for its depiction of Thailand as a place of debauchery and danger, it also showcased the neon-lit streets and raucous nightlife of Bangkok. The Hangover II served as a reminder that Thailand is a place where anything can happen, and that sense of freedom and abandon is what draws many travellers to the country.
James Bond: The Man With The Golden Gun (1974)
The James Bond franchise has visited Thailand on more than one occasion, but its debut in the country was in The Man With The Golden Gun. Bond fans will recognize the temples of Khao Phing Kan (also known as James Bond Island), in Phang Nga Bay, where Bond battled it out with Christopher Lee’s iconic Bond villain, Scaramanga.
Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (2004)
Although it only features briefly in the film, the floating markets of Bangkok featured in Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason brought an exotic flavor to the movie. The floating markets are a common sight in Thailand, where locals sell everything from fruits and vegetables to souvenirs and clothing, all from boats on the river. The scene in the film is a visual feast and highlights the unique shopping experience that can be had in Thailand.
Thailand has given us some truly memorable movie moments. Its stunning scenery, rich culture, and unique way of life have captivated audiences around the world. Whether it’s the tranquil beaches of Koh Phi Phi or the pulsing streets of Bangkok, Thailand is a place of endless fascination and has no doubt inspired countless future films to come.