At a first glance, film locations in Thailand might seem to be all about exotic islands. Of course, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and many other destinations have won their fame. Yet this country has so much more to offer. Behind the bustling streets of Bangkok, there is potential for sci-fi films too.
Urban Film Locations In Thailand
Recovering after the pandemic, the movie industry is trying to catch up. That explains why the first three months of this year were so prolific for Thai backdrops. Up to 26 foreign productions relied on film locations in Thailand in the first trimester.
Fame precedes all those Thai beaches with turquoise waters. But aside from the country’s lush islands, the urban landscape also has a lot to offer.
For an endless urban skyline, the Thai capital boasts panoramic spots. Skyscrapers stretching far into the distance make it perfect for futuristic shots. The Hangover Part II (2011) relied on it to substitute the loud and glam looks of Las Vegas.
And coming down to the wide boulevards or narrow backstreets, a whole new world opens its gates. Bangkok’s Khao San Road may sound like a tricky location to film in, given how many tourists it attracts. But it ensures you get plenty of bustling metropolis kind of b-roll. The Beach (2000) gives a few glimpses right from the heart of this crowded street.
Asian countries have a long tradition when it comes to unusual markets. Enjoy catching unique angles of the action in Bangkok’s markets. You get to choose a train or floating market if you wish, as film locations in Thailand can include any of them. Of course, the abundance of colors and flavors is also found in traditional markets.
And for a time-traveling perspective, shoot along the Chao Phraya River. You can have temples and striking modern architecture in one frame.
Thailand Backdrops For Sci-Fi Productions
The cultural diversity found in Thailand turns into an advantage for foreign filmmakers. It guarantees a versatile pool of specialists available on the spot. Plus, it brings plenty of eye-catching action in the streets, ideal for b-roll. Now, it may come as a surprise (or not) that film locations in Thailand can also match out-of-the-box ideas.
As serene and telegenic as Thai beaches can be, they may not work for dystopian plots. Instead, the backstreets of Bangkok have won quite a reputation for being gloomy. They create a high contrast with the highly-developed areas of the metropolis.
Chiang Mai is another hot spot among foreign filmmakers. Da 5 Bloods(2020) was mostly filmed here, depicting a story taking place in wartime.
Aside from a bustling metropolis, filmmakers also rely on film studio backdrops. Fortunately, the rather mature film industry in Thailand ensures there are plenty. You can easily get to work with top-notch specialists, in state-of-the-art studios. As proof of Thai studios’ potential, think of the productions shot here. Netflix’s psychological sci-fi thriller Deep (2021) is just one, fresh out of production.
From Mortal Kombat (1995) to horror or romance movies, the kingdom is a magnet for filmmakers. Ready to explore it?