WITH Thailand considered a prime location for foreign film shooting, including movies, TV series and commercials, this sector has raked in over 3.431 billion baht through 214 films produced here from January to May this year, Thai Rath newspaper said earlier this week.
The draw card is the government having increased the cash rebate to 20-30% from the original 15-20% in February last year for a period of two years. The biggest benefit of 20% cash rebate is for a minimum US$100 million investment with additional benefits not exceeding 10%.
The ceiling for cash rebate was also increased from US$75 million baht per film to US$150 million baht.
The Department of Tourism’s Thailand Film Office said a single film shot here spreads income to various business segments as follows:
– 38% in wages to Thai crew/actors;
– 22% for renting filming equipment;
– 21% for accommodation, food and travel;
– 10% for Covid-19 control including tests and isolation of those infected;
– 9% for renting studios, film locations and private areas.
Moreover the film crew also pay various taxes, such as value added tax and personal income tax.
Just in May alone, 43 foreign films were shot here, up two the same month last year, with total investment of 301.62 million baht being 4 million baht higher than last year.
Most of the films were commercials followed by documentaries, travel shows, music videos, movies and reality shows, in that order.
The largest number of films produced here were by French companies, followed by the US and the UK respectively.
Most popular locations are Bangkok, Samut Prakan, Chonburi, Pathum Thani and Nonthaburi
CAPTIONS:
Top: The filming of “Jurassic World 4” directed by Gareth Edwards is set to take place in Krabi and Trang during June 13- July 16, 2024. Photo: Thai Rath
Front Page: Hollywood megastar Russell Crowe in Thailand for the filming of the movie “The Greatest Beer Run Ever” in 2021. Photo shared on Twitter
Also read: ‘Mother of the Bride’ joins list of hit films made in Thailand
Russell Crowe in Bangkok, shares photos and videos on Twitter
Michael Jackson’s nephew to star in ‘King of Pop’ biopic
After 23 years, the Gladiator sequel is finally happening
PM aiming to build FI race track near U-Tapao airport by 2027
Movies being screened at cemetery to mark Chinese New Year
