Thailand Hopes “Jurassic World” Filming Boosts Krabi Tourism
The confluence of cultural power and economic strategy is a fascinating, often fraught, space. Consider Thailand’s recent play: a concerted effort to lure Hollywood productions, not just for fleeting moments of global attention, but as a cornerstone of a broader economic development plan. The upcoming release of Jurassic World Rebirth, largely filmed in Thailand, is the latest test of this thesis.
The Thai Department of Tourism, as detailed in these recent findings, hopes the film, employing over 2,245 Thai workers and showcasing the scenic beauty of Krabi, Phang Nga, and Trang provinces, will translate into a significant tourism boost. This isn’t simply about hoping for the best; it’s a calculated gamble, built upon a foundation of financial incentives designed to make Thailand an attractive destination for major film productions. This is also happening as The White Lotus chose Thailand as a primary shooting location for the third season.
But beyond the immediate influx of tourism dollars, what are the deeper implications of this strategy? It raises fundamental questions about the role of government in shaping cultural narratives and the long-term sustainability of relying on external forces to drive economic growth.
The strategy hinges on a few key assumptions:
- Increased Tourism: The most obvious expected outcome is, of course, more tourists. The logic is simple: see Thailand on screen, want to visit Thailand in person.
- Job Creation: Film productions create jobs, both directly (crew, production staff) and indirectly (service providers). The government hopes this translates into broader economic benefits, especially at the local level.
- Image Enhancement: A Hollywood blockbuster featuring Thailand’s natural beauty elevates the country’s global image, potentially attracting investment and other forms of economic activity.
- Development of Local Talent: Exposure to international productions can upskill local crews and talent, potentially fostering a more robust domestic film industry.
These incentives, in the form of financial rebates for foreign film productions choosing Thailand, represent a significant investment. Chatuporn Pakdeewanich, director-general of the Department of Tourism, highlights that Jurassic World Rebirth alone invested over 400 million baht ($12.2 million) into the local economy. This raises the question: Is this the most effective use of government resources? Are there potential opportunity costs—investments in other sectors that might yield greater long-term benefits?
The risk is that these incentives become a crutch, creating a dependence on the fluctuating whims of the global entertainment industry. What happens if Hollywood’s tastes change? What if another country offers more enticing incentives? A sustainable strategy requires more than just attracting foreign productions; it requires building a robust and independent domestic film industry, one that can thrive even without external investment.
The true test of Thailand’s strategy will not be the immediate spike in tourism following the release of Jurassic World Rebirth, but rather whether it lays the foundation for a resilient and diversified economy, one less reliant on the fleeting spotlight of Hollywood.
Ultimately, Thailand’s bet on blockbusters is a microcosm of a larger trend: the increasing entanglement of culture, economics, and geopolitics. It’s a reminder that economic development is not just about attracting capital; it’s about shaping narratives, building institutions, and fostering a sense of national identity. The stunning seascapes and lush jungles seen on screen may draw tourists, but the true measure of success will be the long-term impact on the lives of the Thai people.
