These movies about Thailand, with its rich cultural tapestry, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, have served as the backdrop for countless cinematic masterpieces over the years.
From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the tranquil shores of its tropical islands, the country’s diverse settings provide filmmakers with an array of captivating visuals and immersive experiences.
Movies About Thailand
Whether it’s exploring the complexities of Thai society, delving into its mystical traditions, or simply basking in the allure of its exotic beauty, movies set in Thailand offer you a captivating journey into this enchanting Southeast Asian nation.
Personally, I have been visiting Thailand since 1998 and have lived in the country for several years. It’s one of my favourite places in the world and these are some of the best movies about Thailand I recommend you watch.
Thirteen Lives (2022)
“Thirteen Lives” is a movie directed by Ron Howard, based on the true story of the 2018 Tham Luang cave rescue in Thailand. The film depicts the remarkable rescue mission to save a Thai youth soccer team and their coach, who were trapped deep within a flooded cave system.
The rescue operation garnered worldwide attention and involved a complex and daring effort by international divers, military personnel, and volunteers. The title, “Thirteen Lives,” refers to the 12 boys and their coach who were rescued from the cave.
The film shows the bravery, teamwork, and human spirit that prevailed during this harrowing ordeal and is one of the most recent movies about Thailand to watch.
The Impossible (2012)
“The Impossible” is a disaster drama film based on the true story of the Belón family’s experiences during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
The story follows a British family on vacation in Thailand when the devastating tsunami strikes their resort. Separated by the immense force of the waves, the family members struggle to survive and find each other amid the chaos and destruction.
The film portrays their physical and emotional journey as they search for safety and reunite amidst the devastation left by one of the deadliest natural disasters in recorded history.
The Beach (2000)
“The Beach” is an adventure drama film based on the 1996 novel of the same name by Alex Garland. Tip, read the book as it’s much better than the movie, in my opinion. But I’m adding this movie here as it has become a cult classic among backpackers heading to Thailand.
The story follows a young American backpacker named Richard, played by DiCaprio, who travels to Thailand and hears about a hidden paradise beach. He embarks on a journey to find this elusive utopian destination with a map given to him by a mysterious traveller.
Eventually, Richard discovers the secluded beach and joins a community of fellow travellers who have formed their idyllic society. However, as tensions rise within the group and secrets are revealed, the once-perfect paradise begins to unravel.
“The Beach” explores themes of adventure, escapism, and the desire for utopia, while also delving into the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of pursuing perfection.
Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior (2003)
“Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior” is a martial arts action film that is notable for its impressive action sequences and its focus on the traditional Thai martial art of Muay Thai.
The story revolves around a young man named Ting, played by Tony Jaa, who hails from a rural village in Thailand. When the head of the sacred Ong-Bak Buddha statue is stolen from his village, Ting travels to Bangkok to retrieve it.
In the city, he becomes embroiled in the world of underground fighting and criminal activity as he searches for the stolen artefact.
The film helped catapult Jaa to international fame and solidified his reputation as one of the most talented martial artists in contemporary cinema. Additionally, the movie’s success contributed to a resurgence of interest in Muay Thai and Thai action cinema around the world.
The Hangover Part II (2011)
“The Hangover Part II” is a comedy film that serves as a sequel to the highly successful 2009 film “The Hangover.” The movie reunites the main cast from the first film.
In this instalment, the group of friends travels to Thailand for Stu’s wedding. However, what begins as a relatively innocent bachelor party quickly spirals out of control when they wake up in a seedy hotel room in Bangkok with no memory of the previous night’s events.
As they piece together the events of their wild night, they encounter various bizarre and humorous situations, including a missing brother, a drug-dealing monkey, and encounters with dangerous criminals.
“The Hangover Part II” follows a similar formula to the first film, with the characters navigating a series of comedic misadventures while trying to unravel the mysteries of their blackout night.
Only God Forgives (2013)
“Only God Forgives” is a neo-noir crime film known for its stylized cinematography, atmospheric soundtrack, and dark, violent themes.
Set in Bangkok, Thailand, the story follows Julian (played by Ryan Gosling), a drug smuggler who operates a boxing club as a front for his criminal activities. When his brother is killed after brutally murdering a young prostitute, Julian’s mother, Crystal, arrives in Bangkok seeking revenge.
However, her actions lead to a confrontation with Chang, a ruthless and enigmatic police lieutenant known as the “Angel of Vengeance.”
“Only God Forgives” is a visually striking film characterized by its slow pace, sparse dialogue, and intense, sometimes graphic violence and is one of the best movies about Thailand to watch for Bangkok.
Tropical Malady (2004)
“Tropical Malady” is a Thai film directed by Apichatpong Weerasethakul. The movie is known for its unique storytelling style and exploration of themes related to identity, desire, and spirituality.
The film is divided into two distinct parts. The first part depicts the blossoming romance between a soldier named Keng and a young man named Tong, set in rural Thailand. Their relationship unfolds gradually amidst the lush, tropical landscape, and their bond deepens as they explore the forest together.
The second part of the film takes a more surreal and symbolic turn. It portrays a folkloric tale of a soldier venturing into the jungle to confront a shapeshifting spirit known as the “tiger.” This part of the film blurs the lines between reality and myth, inviting interpretation and reflection on themes of transformation and the interconnectedness of human and animal worlds.
“Tropical Malady” is excellent for its poetic imagery, meditative pacing, and evocative exploration of cultural and spiritual themes.
The Protector (2005)
“The Protector” (also known as “Tom-Yum-Goong” in Thai) is a martial arts action film starring Tony Jaa. The film showcases Tony Jaa’s exceptional skills in Muay Thai and features breathtaking fight sequences.
The story follows Kham (played by Tony Jaa), a young man living in rural Thailand who has been trained in the ancient art of Muay Thai. When his beloved elephant, Khon, is stolen and taken to Sydney, Australia, Kham embarks on a dangerous journey to rescue him. Along the way, he becomes entangled with a powerful criminal syndicate involved in illegal animal trafficking.
“The Protector” is renowned for its intense and elaborate fight scenes, many of which feature Tony Jaa’s trademark acrobatic stunts and use of traditional Muay Thai techniques. The film also highlights elements of Thai culture, including Buddhist philosophy and reverence for elephants.
While the plot may be relatively straightforward, the film’s action choreography and Tony Jaa’s charismatic performance garnered praise from martial arts enthusiasts and action movie fans worldwide.
Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives (2010)
“Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives” is a Thai art-house film directed by Apichatpong Weerasethakul. The film is known for its surreal narrative, meditative pacing, and exploration of themes related to memory, reincarnation, and the human experience.
The story revolves around Uncle Boonmee, a middle-aged man suffering from kidney failure who retreats to his rural home in northeastern Thailand to spend his final days surrounded by loved ones. As he reflects on his life and impending death, Uncle Boonmee begins to experience visions and encounters with spirits from his past lives, including his deceased wife and son.
“Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives” blurs the boundaries between reality and dream, weaving together elements of fantasy, folklore, and personal reflection. The film unfolds in a series of hypnotic and atmospheric vignettes, inviting viewers to contemplate the nature of existence and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
Last Life in the Universe (2003)
“Last Life in the Universe” is a Thai film directed by Pen-Ek Ratanaruang. It’s a unique blend of drama, romance, and dark comedy, known for its stylish cinematography and contemplative storytelling.
The film follows Kenji, a Japanese man played by Japanese actor Tadanobu Asano, who is living in Bangkok, Thailand. He works as a librarian and leads a solitary and orderly life. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Noi, a Thai woman, who is on the run from her violent boyfriend.
Despite their language barrier, Kenji and Noi form an unlikely connection and embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. “Last Life in the Universe” explores themes of loneliness, redemption, and the transformative power of human connection.
Hunger (2023)
Hunger is one of the newest movies about Thailand you can watch and is a Thai film set in Bangkok.
It follows Aoy, who is a middle-class girl who runs the family’s small noodle restaurant in Bangkok. She gets an invitation to leave the noodle restaurant and join team Hunger, which is Thailand’s number one luxury table team that’s led by a famous and infamously nasty chef.
The cinematography of the food is masterful in itself and the film gives a great portrait of class disparity.
Thailand
Thailand has been the backdrop for a diverse array of films, ranging from action-packed martial arts epics to thought-provoking art-house dramas.
From iconic classics to contemporary gems, these movies about Thailand have captured the essence and allure of the country.
For more on the country have a look at the 10 best documentaries about Thailand.
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