Thai Movie Podcast

The Thai film industry, traditionally perceived as a weaker component of the country's soft power framework, is potentially on the brink of a transformative era. This shift is highlighted by the recent success of the horror-comedy film "The Undertaker," which has sparked a renewed interest in the potential of Thai cinema both domestically and internationally...

The Chinese movie "No More Bets," released in August, has become a cultural phenomenon, grossing over $500 million in its first month. Its storyline, centered around Chinese citizens lured into scams in Southeast Asia, has sparked a debate on the power of cinema in shaping public perception, particularly regarding the safety of tourist destinations...

The success of “Sap Pa Rer” has brought to light the potential of the Thai movie industry as a vehicle for soft power. Soft power, a term coined by Joseph Nye, refers to the ability of a country to influence others through cultural appeal rather than coercion. The director, Thiti Srinuan, expressed regret for not understanding this concept earlier, as it could have influenced the film's international distribution and impact...

For nine years, Thailand's creative industries, including its film sector, were under the conservative grip of the government led by former army chief Prayuth Chan-ocha. This period saw a decline in freedoms, with filmmakers, artists, and even musicians facing restrictions, surveillance, and charges of sedition and royal defamation. The new government's move to relax these constraints marks a significant shift in the country's approach to creative expression.