Thailand Ramps Up Film Incentives as Global Productions Flock In
Thailand is quickly becoming a global filmmaking hotspot. Hit series The White Lotus Season 3, shot in locations like Koh Samui and Phuket, drew over 16 million viewers, sparking global interest in Thai filming destinations. The upcoming Jurassic World movie, also filmed in Thailand, adds to the buzz.
To capitalize, the Thai government raised cash rebates for foreign productions to 30%. In 2024, 491 international shoots generated a total of THB 6.58 billion. For 2025, the goal is THB 10 billion.
From January to March 2025, 155 productions netted THB 1.7 billion. At the 2025 FILMART expo in Hong Kong, over 700 film companies expressed interest, with potential investments topping THB 2 billion.
Thailand’s aggressive incentive program is not only attracting high-budget projects, it’s boosting tourism, local employment, and international exposure.
Notable Recent Productions Filmed in Thailand
Thailand’s appeal is evident in the array of high-profile film and television projects recently shot within its borders:
The White Lotus – Season 3 (HBO, 2025)
Synopsis: The third season of HBO’s anthology series delves into themes of death, spirituality, and the Western commercialization of Eastern traditions. Set in a luxurious Thai resort, the narrative follows a new ensemble cast navigating personal dramas amidst the backdrop of Thailand’s rich culture.
Filming Locations in Thailand: Multiple locations were used for the filming, including the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort, and Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas in Phuket. Scenes were also shot at Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park, Ya Nui Beach in Phuket, and various sites in Bangkok.
The Creator (2023)
Synopsis: Set in a dystopian future, this science fiction film follows a former soldier tasked with destroying a powerful AI entity.
Filming Locations in Thailand: The film utilized diverse Thai locales, including Suvarnabhumi Airport, Ban Mung, Sangkhla Buri, Chiang Dao, Sam Phan Bok, and Makkasan station in Bangkok.
S.W.A.T. – Season 6 (CBS, 2023)
Synopsis: In this season, the S.W.A.T. team travels to Bangkok to extradite a fugitive. However, complications arise, leading to intense action sequences as the team navigates unfamiliar terrain and challenges.
Filming Locations in Thailand: Key scenes were shot in Bangkok, capturing the city’s vibrant streets and landmarks, adding authenticity to the storyline.
Meg 2: The Trench (2023)
Synopsis: The sequel to the 2018 thriller sees Jonas Taylor leading a research team into the deepest parts of the ocean, only to confront colossal prehistoric sharks and other dangers lurking in the trench.
Filming Locations in Thailand: Production took place at Paradise Beach in Phuket, Than Bok Khorani National Park in Krabi, and a studio in Samut Prakan.
Mother of the Bride (2024)
Synopsis: This romantic comedy centers on a mother who discovers her daughter is marrying the son of her ex-boyfriend. As wedding preparations unfold, past relationships and comedic mishaps come to light.
Filming Locations in Thailand: The film was shot in Phuket, utilizing the island’s picturesque beaches and resorts to depict the wedding setting.
The Sympathizer (HBO, 2024)
Synopsis: This series, based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, follows a half-French, half-Vietnamese communist spy during the final days of the Vietnam War and his subsequent exile in the United States.
Filming Locations in Thailand: Thailand stood in for various Southeast Asian locales, with filming primarily in Bangkok and surrounding areas to recreate scenes set in Vietnam.
How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies (2024)
Synopsis: A heartfelt drama about a young man who, upon learning of his grandmother’s terminal illness, decides to care for her in hopes of securing an inheritance, only to develop a genuine bond with her.
Filming Locations in Thailand: The film was shot in Talat Phlu, a Chinese community in Bangkok, with additional filming at Talat Phlu Market and Wat Chantharam Worawihan.
Fountain of Youth (2025)
Synopsis: This action-adventure film directed by Guy Ritchie sees estranged siblings set out on a global quest to find the mythical Fountain of Youth, facing challenges that test their bond and resilience.
Filming Locations in Thailand: Scenes were filmed in Bangkok, capturing the city’s dynamic atmosphere and landmarks to enhance the film’s adventurous tone.
Jurassic World: Rebirth (2025)
Synopsis: The latest installment in the Jurassic World franchise sees a new era of dinosaurs unleashed, leading to unforeseen consequences and thrilling encounters.
Filming Locations in Thailand: Production took place in Khao Phanom Bencha National Park in Krabi, Ko Kradan at Hat Chao Mai National Park in Trang, and Ao Phang Nga National Park in Phang Nga, showcasing Thailand’s lush landscapes.
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