Thailand has established itself as the go-to destination for Hollywood and international filmmakers, leveraging its stunning locales to boost tourism and support the local economy.
Highlighting Thailand’s allure is the recent production of Mother of the Bride, an American romantic comedy directed by Mark Waters which was shot at Anantara Layan Phuket Resort and Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas, both operated by Minor Hotels.
In 2022, the Thai government took a bold step to waive personal income tax for foreign talent for five years, augmenting an already attractive film incentive system.
Since then, the programme was further enhanced to offer foreign film productions a cash rebate of up to 20%, with Phuket emerging as a prime location for shooting overseas films.
Tourism authorities,the government and local businesses are confident that this investment will pay dividends, anticipating a surge in visitor numbers and a significant uptick in spending, as international productions like Mother of the Bride, introduce Thailand to new audiences.
Set to premiere on Netflix on May 9th, just ahead of international Mother’s Day, Mother of the Bride starring Brooke Shields, Miranda Cosgrove and Benjamin Bratt, narrates the tale of Lana, whose daughter Emma’s return from overseas with news of her impending destination wedding in Thailand.
This sets off a chain of comedic events—especially since Lana is set to marry her ex’s son.
William Heinecke, Founder and Chairman of Minor International, who makes a cameo in the film, shared his enthusiasm: “Thailand is skilfully tapping into the ‘set-jetting’ phenomenon, where tourists flock to locations featured in films and TV shows.
Our goal is to showcase Thailand as a vibrant cinematic hub that enriches the local economy while offering tangible benefits to production teams in terms of cost and efficiency. When Thailand thrives, we all benefit.”
Minor Hotels is a global hospitality group operating over 540 hotels, resorts and residences in 56 countries, pursuing its vision of crafting a more passionate and interconnected world. As a hotel owner, operator and investor, Minor Hotels fulfils the needs and desires of today’s global travellers through its diverse portfolio of eight hotel brands – Anantara, Avani, Elewana Collection, NH, NH Collection, nhow, Oaks and Tivoli – and a collection of related businesses. Minor Hotels is rapidly accelerating its global growth ambitions, aiming to add more than 200 hotels by the end of 2026.
Minor Hotels is a proud member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands, and participates in the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme.
For more information, please visit minorhotels.com and connect with Minor Hotels on Facebook and LinkedIn.
