RL’s guide to cinematic locations around Thailand
Hollywood filmmakers are renowned for highlighting beautiful locations, and Thailand’s stunning landscapes have long provided the perfect backdrop for war dramas, action-packed adventures, and even commercials. Below, we’ve curated a list of 15 films – along with the iconic locations you can visit to experience the magic of the movies firsthand.
The Man with the Golden Gun (1974)
The ninth installment in the James Bond saga immortalized Phuket for decades. The film’s iconic limestone karsts, rising from emerald waters, are found in Phang Nga Bay and available for day trips from Phuket.
Emmanuelle (1974)
Few films have done more to ignite a passion for Thailand than Emmanuelle, a classic of world erotic cinema. The setting is exotic Bangkok.
Bangkok Hilton (1989)
This mini-series starring Nicole Kidman presents a much darker view of Bangkok. Its central location is a sinister prison known by its grim nickname, Bangkok Hilton.
The Beach (2000)
This iconic film starring Leonardo DiCaprio was entirely shot in Thailand: on the Khao San Road in Bangkok, in Maya Bay, at the On-On Hotel in Phuket Town, and in Khao Yai National Park.
The Hangover Part II (2011)
The Thai capital is very much a co-star in this outrageous comedy, thus some translations of the title even feature “Bangkok” in them. The luxurious hotel in the movie is the Lebua State Tower.
Mechanic: Resurrection (2016)
Want to feel like Jason Statham? Or ready to do better than he did? Rent a jet ski and take a ride through Phang Nga Bay, just like Jason did in this action-packed movie!
The Impossible (2012)
This harrowing disaster film, based on true events, was shot in Khao Lak – the coastal area devastated by the 2004 tsunami. The Tsunami Memorial is just an hour’s drive from Phuket.
Fast & Furious 9 (2021)
The ninth installment in the Fast & Furious saga brought its signature high-speed action to the Andaman coast. If you want to channel your inner Dominic Toretto, rent a car and embark on a scenic road trip from Phuket through Phang Nga and into Krabi.
Hunger (2023)
This Thai drama delves into the high-stakes world of fine dining, masterfully contrasting Bangkok’s grandeur of Haute Cusine and the simpleness of street food.
Meg 2: The Trench (2023)
Jason Statham returns to Phuket – this time to Paradise Beach. For a more immersive experience, go diving near Racha Yai or Koh Phi Phi?
Jurassic World: Rebirth (2025)
The latest chapter in the Jurassic World saga is set to hit theaters in July 2025. The movie was filmed in Krabi and Trang, including Khao Phanom Bencha National Park and Koh Kradan.
The White Lotus. Season 3 (2025)
The next chapter of HBO’s acclaimed series unfolds at the Four Seasons Koh Samui while some of the show’s scenes were filmed at Mai Khao Beach and Ta Khai Restaurant in Phuket.












