Hollywood has a long-standing love affair with Thailand, and it’s easy to see why. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant modern cities, this Asian country offers filmmakers the perfect backdrop for a wide range of stories.
Over the years, many of Hollywood’s biggest names have made their way to Thailand to shoot films, and the country has played host to some of the industry’s most memorable productions.
Here are some of the best movies shot in Thailand:
1. The Beach (2000)
Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, The Beach follows a young American backpacker who dreams of finding a utopian island paradise in Thailand. Shot entirely on location in various locations around the country, including Maya Bay on the island of Koh Phi Phi, the film helped to put Thailand on the map as a must-visit destination for adventurous travelers.
2. The Hangover Part II (2011)
The sequel to the raucous comedy hit The Hangover, this film follows a group of friends as they travel to Bangkok for a bachelor party that quickly goes awry. Shot on location in the Thai capital, the film offers a hilarious and irreverent look at one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant cities.
3. Only God Forgives (2013)
Director Nicolas Winding-Refn’s follow-up to the critically acclaimed Drive takes viewers to the seedy underbelly of Bangkok’s criminal underworld. Starring Ryan Gosling as a brooding American ex-pat, the film features gorgeous camerawork and a haunting soundtrack that perfectly capture the dark, pulsing energy of the city.
4. Tomorrow Never Dies (1997)
The 18th installment in the James Bond franchise, Tomorrow Never Dies was partly shot in Thailand, with scenes taking place at the beautiful Phang Nga Bay and Phi Phi Island. The film features Pierce Brosnan as the titular spy, who must prevent a media mogul from starting World War III.
5. The Impossible (2012)
Based on the true story of a family who survived the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, The Impossible was filmed in various locations throughout Thailand, including Khao Lak and Phuket. The film stars Naomi Watts and Ewan McGregor as the parents of a family caught in the disaster, and features stunning cinematography that captures both the beauty and raw power of the Thai landscape.
Thailand’s unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and exciting modern cities has made it an irresistible destination for filmmakers from all over the world. From Hollywood blockbusters to independent art films, this Asian country has played host to some of the most memorable productions in recent memory. As Thailand’s reputation as a world-class filmmaking destination continues to grow, we can only expect more captivating stories to emerge from this fascinating and endlessly alluring country.