2024-12-26
Thailand is taking a big step to strengthen its cultural identity on the global stage through film. The National Soft Power Strategy Committee has approved a budget of 220 million baht to support the production of films and short films focused on highlighting Thai culture and identity.
Dr. Surapong Suebwonglee, chairman of the National Soft Power Development Committee, made the announcement after the committee's first meeting in 2024. He emphasized that the film industry is a key tool to elevate Thai culture internationally. The budget is already secured for the 2025 budget year.
Four main objectives of the budget
Prasop Riengngern, Director General of the Department of Cultural Promotion, explained how the budget will be used:
- Support for film production - Funding for projects that promote Thai culture.
- Development of industrial personnel - Training to strengthen the industry's skills.
- International marketing - Promote Thai films at international film festivals.
- Film related activities in Thailand - Create platforms to engage the local industry.
Application process and criteria
The budget is open to applications from companies, foundations and educational institutions. Projects must meet the following criteria:
- Promote cultural diversity.
- Increase international competitiveness.
- Create jobs.
- Effectively promote Thai culture.
Applications can be submitted via the Department of Cultural Promotion's website from 6 January to 7 February 2025. Funding decisions will be announced at the end of March.
Focus on quality and competence
Mom Ratchawong Chalermchatri Yukol, a member of the Drama, Series, Documentary and Animation Subcommittee, explained that the support will cover all production phases, from pre-production to post-production. The goal is to raise the quality of Thai films, strengthen the industry's skills and create more job opportunities.
A vision for the future
This initiative demonstrates Thailand's commitment to using high-quality storytelling as a tool to spread its culture internationally. Through this investment, the country hopes to create a stronger impression on the global cultural arena.
Thai movie stars and popular movies
Popular Thai Movies:
- Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior (2003)
- An action film that became internationally famous for its spectacular martial arts scenes and put Thai films on the world map.
- Shutter (2004)
- A horror film that became an international success and inspired several remakes around the world.
- Bad Genius (2017)
- A smart thriller that combines a school setting with high tension. The film was a big hit in Asia.
- The Legend of Suriyothai (2001)
- A historical drama that tells the story of Queen Suriyothai and her heroism.
- Pee Mak (2013)
- A romantic comedy with a twist of horror, based on a classic Thai ghost story.
Famous people in Thailand's film scene:
- Tony Jaa
- Actor and martial arts expert who broke through with Ong Bak. He is one of Thailand's most famous international film stars.
- Apichatpong Weerasethakul
- An award-winning director, known for films like Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives (winner of the Palme d'Or in Cannes 2010).
- Pimchanok Luevisadpaibul
- A popular actress who is best known for her role in the movie Crazy Little Thing Called Love.
- Chutimon Chuengcharoen
- The first Thai actress to win an award at the New York Asian Film Festival for her role in Bad Genius.
- Banjong Pisanthanakun
- Director behind horror films such as Shutter and Pee Mak, which made a big impression internationally.
Did you know that?
Thai films are known for their unique genres, from horror and action to romantic comedies, making them popular both locally and internationally.
Source: This information is taken from an official report published by the National News Bureau of Thailand on their Facebook page.
Text: The editorial staff
Image license: sasint, Pixabay, original image