Recently updated on July 28th, 2023 at 11:42 am
Are you looking for entertaining films about Thailand to inspire your future travel plans? Look no further. From classic comedies to nail-biting thrillers, here are 7 films set in Thailand to watch before you plan your trip — or to throw on in the background while you pack your bags!
The Beach
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The 2000 film starring Leonard DiCaprio and Tilda Swinton follows Richard, an American man on a backpacking trip to Khao San Road. Richard winds up on an uninhibited and restricted island in the Gulf of Thailand, Ko Phi Phi Le. This island, due to the popularity of the film, is one of the country’s most visited destinations for young tourists. Like most movies filmed in Thailand, The Beach gives viewers a glimpse at the extraordinary beaches and crystal-clear waters. However, as beautiful as the scenes are, it’s worth noting that the production company received some backlash for altering the natural setting while filming.
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Shutter
If you’re a fan of films about horror and mystery, chances are you have already watched Shutter. In fact, this film is one of the most well-known Thai movies in the genre. It’s about a young couple who, after fleeing a tragic car accident, begin to experience bizarre paranormal episodes like seeing blurry images appear in developed photographs. This suspense-filled Thai film was originally released in 2004 and has since been remade in English, Tamil and Hindi.
The Hangover Part II
If you’re looking for some comedic relief and some stunning shots of Thailand, The Hangover Part II will deliver. The second film in The Hangover trilogy follows Phil, Stu, Alan and Doug’s journey to Thailand for Stu’s wedding. The group get involved in all sorts of adventures in and around Bangkok — including a visit to a Buddhist temple. While this movie might be a better example of what not to do on your visit to Thailand, it’s sure to bring some laughter and entertainment.
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Good Morning, Vietnam
Set in Vietnam but predominately filmed in Bangkok, Good Morning, Vietnam is arguably one of the most well-known films shot in Thailand. The 1987 comedy-drama stars Robin Williams as an American radio DJ who goes to Saigon to broadcast for the Armed Forces Radio Service. Williams’ performance earned him a Golden Globe for Best Actor. And, Good Morning, Vietnam also appears on the list of the American Film Institute’s 100 Funniest American Movies. It’s a classic!
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Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason
This 2004 romantic comedy is the second in the popular series and it follows Bridget (Renée Zellweger) on a whimsical journey throughout Thailand. It’s lighthearted, romantic and offers some seriously stunning views of Bangkok and Phuket. Not only that, it has an all-star cast including Hugh Grant and Colin Firth.
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James Bond: The Man with the Golden Gun
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Calling all James Bond fans! Did you know that the ninth movie in the series was predominantly filmed in Thailand? The 1974 spy movie includes scenes filmed all across the country including Bangkok, Thonburi, Phuket and the Thai islands of Ko Khao Phing Kan and Ko Tapu. Fun fact: Ko Tapu is now referred to as “James Bond Island” by some travel guidebooks and tourists.
The Impossible
Starring Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor and Tom Holland, The Impossible is based on the true story of a Spanish family’s experience of the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004. The family goes to Khao Lak, Thailand for Christmas holiday in 2004 and are hit with a massive tsunami on 26 December. The film received rave reviews from critics and Watts was nominated for an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award and Screen Actors Guild Award for her remarkable performance.
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Are there any films about Thailand that we forgot to include? Let us know your favourites in the comment section.