HOT Magazine March 15, 2015 | Page 42

production industry. Commercials from across the region are often filmed and post-produced in Thailand. Fortunately, Thailand is home to so many unique and beautiful locations that there are always fresh treasures awaiting visiting film-makers. Its film service providers constantly update equipment, and its crews adapt to new technologies, and government support combined with private initiatives will ensure that Thailand’s star continues to shine on screens across the world. As recognition, and in celebration of the growth of filming in Thailand, the Thailand Film Office in 2013 organized the first Thailand International Film Destination Festival. It was a great success, attracting directors, actors, press and film students from across the world. This year, its 3rd, the festival was held once again under the concept “Scenery, Scenes, Seen on Screen” with the aim to promote new unseen locations around the country to be used by filmmakers as the backdrops to their movies. A new aspect to this year’s film 42 Mar 15 - Apr 15 , 2015 festival was the “Amazing Thailand Film Challenge”. Thirty-six competing teams from 16 countries were provided return flights, four nights’ accommodation, a budget of 30,000 Thai Baht (approx $1,000), and professional production support. Each team comprised of two filmmakers, who were challenged to see who had the imagination, creativity, resourcefulness, and ingenuity to be able to research, travel, and make a film in a new and unfamiliar country in a limited time. It was an opportunity for the participating teams to meet fellow film-makers from across the world, to share ideas and learn from the different cultures, and to visit the extraordinary Kingdom of Thailand. Starting February 5th, the chosen filmmakers gathered in Thailand and prepared for the challenge of their lives. Over the next six days, they were spread across Thailand in 36 teams and each made a short film. The filmmakers had to find the subject; actors or interviewees, take on all the technical roles, and edit