Finding the right production services company in Thailand



So much more than just a 'fixer'

As the world film market has developed and regional film industries have grown, film-makers have a choice of destinations across the globe - from desert to jungle - from high-rise cityscapes to pastoral beauty.

In the old days, when Tarzan movies were filmed in the RKO Forty Acres backlot and in Sherwood Forest, filming in far-flung locations was a massive logistical challenge.

Nowadays, the international air network, high-speed communications, and the availability of local resources has meant that not only can film-makers achieve authenticity and added production value, but they can even save money.

Communicating in a different language, dealing with different cultures, and negotiating local deals has always needed a local 'fixer' - a man on the ground who can guide a production through the local system.

Nowadays the role of the 'fixer' has evolved into an industry of well-established and experienced production services companies.

Whereas before, it was common for a film to bring in the entire crew, and rely only on a minimum local team to handle the logistics, nowadays producers find that they can often hire local crew, local equipment, local cast, and even local creative department heads.

The increased responsibilities of the local production service company make it more important than ever to find the right production services company.

Thailand recognised the importance of the role of production service companies, and the Thailand Film Office trains, monitors and regulates Thailand's production service companies to ensure that visiting film productions can expect a high standard of service.

But with over a hundred production service companies registered in Thailand, how do you pick a production service company for your film?

1. It is always a good idea to speak to a number of different companies. Every production is different, with its own set of requirements, its own scale and budget. 'Shopping' for the right match is always beneficial.

2. Find a company that has experience at the level that you are working. Some production service companies specialize in commercials, television, or feature films. Some companies have systems in place that enable them to deal with big-budget productions, whilst others can draw every last cent of value from a low-budget film.


3. If you are using a completion bond, it's important that your local production services company is 'bondable'. If you are working for a studio, there may be a large burden of FCPA reporting requirements. In these cases, you will need a production services company with legal and accounting experience.


4. Financial transparency is an area which the Thailand Film Office has prioritized. You should expect a full, transparent accounting system, which withstands both internal and external auditing.


5. Ensure that your production services company has relationships with a number of different local facilities and equipment suppliers, so that you can get competitive quotes.


6. Find a company that is prepared to give you the bad news as well as the good news! When you want to shut down a main road at rush hour, a production service company sometimes must advise you that this is not possible. But a company who truly understands your creative goal can suggest alternatives.


7. The right company will not just take orders, but will suggest ways to increase efficiency and value. They will understand your vision and work with you to achieve the best possible result.

We're going to AFM 2016!

Benetone Films will be part of the American Film Market 2016, to represent the strengths of Thailand's film industry.




Last year, 63 international feature films shot in Thailand - a rise of almost 15% on the previous year. Films such as 'Gold', 'Mechanic: Resurrection', 'No Escape', 'Hard Target 2' featured Thailand as a primary location.

They were largely attracted by the variety of locations, the skilled and efficient crews, and the low cost of production.

With a new incentive being launched in January 2017, the advantages of Thailand become even clearer.

If you plan to shoot in Thailand, or seeking co-production partners.
BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENTS WITH BENETONE FILMS.
Contact us at contact@benetonefilms.com


In Remembrance of His Majesty: What Visitors Should Know


Mourning Period for His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej

Thailand is in an official period of mourning following the passing of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

In this regard, Benetone Films and the Thailand Film Office would like to inform that all foreign production shoot in Thailand is permitted as usual. However, we would request you to observe the following:


• Many Thai people will be wearing black or white clothing as a sign of mourning. This is not required of visitors but if possible, they should wear sombre and respectful clothing when in public.

• Visitors should refrain from conducting any inappropriate or disrespectful behaviour.

• Tourist attractions will be open as usual with the exception of Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and the Grand Palace, as they will be the venue of the Royal Funeral Rites.

• The Government has asked for the cooperation from the entertainment venues; such as, bars and nightclubs to consider the opening of their business operations during this time. The decision will be made by the individual owners.

• Most of the traditional and cultural events will be taking place as usual, although the celebrations may be changed for appropriateness as a mark of respect, or the events may be dedicated to the memory of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

• All transport, banks, hospitals and other public services will be operating as usual.

• The related authorities have stepped up safety and security measures for all Thais and visitors to facilitate their travelling around the country.

• For any enquiries, please contact our TAT domestic offices or Tel.: 1672.

Bentone Films would like to thank all visitors for their understanding and supporting Thailand during this period of time.


Watch: Galantis' New Video, 'Love On Me' Filmed in Thailand



After the success of their massive summer single “No Money”, Galantis are pumped and ready to return with a new music video of their latest single, “Love On Me”, with Australian producer Hook N Sling.

The Swedish EDM duo shot the new music video in Thailand with Benetone Films featuring one of the country’s famous temples and local talents dancing synchronously.

“We filmed the music video in the temple of Wat Tham Khao Noi of the popular province of Kanchanaburi in Thailand. The song is a perfect anthem for celebrating pure joy, humanity and creativity and we feel the extremely beautiful temple represents all of these. Also the location was quite different than many other temples as it is set at the foot of a small hill offering a grander vista of the place rather than a flat temple, and we feel it embodies the dynamics of the song.” explains Kulthep Narula, COO, of production service company Benetone Films.

Featuring over 40 dancers, the uplifting video is produced by Lauren Solie and directed by Dano Cerny, who has previously worked with Elle King, Erik Hassle and Tori Kelly.

Smiley face
“One of the challenges during the production was to find 40 dancers on a limited time. Acclaimed and Grammy nominated choreographer, Noémie Lafrance, worked with a local well-known choreographer for the music video. With only 2 days of rehearsal, we have to make sure the dancers are able to do the dance routines and formations smoothly in the middle of the heat and rain. “

With its smile-inducing and catchy chorus, “Love On Me” is guaranteed to put you in a good mood... and the accompanying music video is equally as uplifting. Director Dano Cerny describes the music video as a blending innovation with spirit and color. The goal is to make something timeless that also speaks to what is happening now and sharing love joy in many forms.

“This project is a collaboration of our two global offices, Thailand and USA. The client having a seamless workflow between their producers, our US office and Thai office in order to ensure a smooth communication leading up to a fantastic production. We all had an amazing time working on the project from the inception to execution. Overall, we would say that Benetone Films had fun working on the project. We were lucky that we got to work on this world class platform and we are proud to be a part of the project and look forward to more in the coming future.”

Watch: Galantis' New Video, 'Love On Me' Filmed in Thailand



After the success of their massive summer single “No Money”, Galantis are pumped and ready to return with a new music video of their latest single, “Love On Me”, with Australian producer Hook N Sling.

The Swedish EDM duo shot the new music video in Thailand with Benetone Films featuring one of the country’s famous temples and local talents dancing synchronously.

“We filmed the music video in the temple of Wat Tham Khao Noi of the popular province of Kanchanaburi in Thailand. The song is a perfect anthem for celebrating pure joy, humanity and creativity and we feel the extremely beautiful temple represents all of these. Also the location was quite different than many other temples as it is set at the foot of a small hill offering a grander vista of the place rather than a flat temple, and we feel it embodies the dynamics of the song.” explains Kulthep Narula, COO, of production service company Benetone Films.

Featuring over 40 dancers, the uplifting video is produced by Lauren Solie and directed by Dano Cerny, who has previously worked with Elle King, Erik Hassle and Tori Kelly.

Smiley face

“One of the challenges during the production was to find 40 dancers on a limited time. Acclaimed and Grammy nominated choreographer, Noémie Lafrance, worked with a local well-known choreographer for the music video. With only 2 days of rehearsal, we have to make sure the dancers are able to do the dance routines and formations smoothly in the middle of the heat and rain. “

With its smile-inducing and catchy chorus, “Love On Me” is guaranteed to put you in a good mood... and the accompanying music video is equally as uplifting. Director Dano Cerny describes the music video as a blending innovation with spirit and color. The goal is to make something timeless that also speaks to what is happening now and sharing love joy in many forms.

“This project is a collaboration of our two global offices, Thailand and USA. The client having a seamless workflow between their producers, our US office and Thai office in order to ensure a smooth communication leading up to a fantastic production. We all had an amazing time working on the project from the inception to execution. Overall, we would say that Benetone Films had fun working on the project. We were lucky that we got to work on this world class platform and we are proud to be a part of the project and look forward to more in the coming future.”

We've just launched our new website!


We are delighted to share with you our newly redesigned website, with a bold new look and enhanced navigation experience.

Mobile optimised
Fully optimised for mobile devices, our new site will allow you to learn more about Benetone Films, using your mobile phone or tablet.

Easy navigation
We’ve streamed lined our menus to give you quick access to the items you’re looking for. 

New content
We will be rolling out new information over the coming weeks and we will continually expand the online content.

Visit benetonefilms.com to learn more.



10 Tips in Searching Shooting Location

Original post is from KFTV

A successful shoot begins with selecting the right location. In fact, one of the most important steps in producing a high-quality video is scouting.




Most of the time we forget to check if the places we want to include in our video are actually really suitable for filming. But bear in mind that this process is as important as making sure your equipment functions.

Here are TEN essential tips that will help you when shooting out on location.

1. MASTER YOUR STORY. It is important to get familiar with your story plot so you can choose the best setting that will match every scene. This will serve you as a guide in selecting the best location. Always get back to the main reason why you are searching for a location: I have a story to tell my viewers. So, you don’t want them confused because of a not suitable location. Many locations will be available for you to choose from but there will be very few that will best fit your story. Story first before going out and scout.

2. TAKE DOWN NOTES. Get your pen and note ready-handy. You will need them as your best friends in scouting location. No matter how sharp your memory is, you have to take down all your observation as you go to every location that you want to check. You will come across many settings when you walk, drive, travel with family and friends or just even by observing. Places will have similarities, differences, advantages and disadvantages so you have to write all important points.

Along with your notes, taking photos or shooting video clip with audio observation will help a lot as actual representation of the area. After a long journey of travel, use your notes, gathered information, photos and videos to compare and contracts locations.

3. FORECAST WEATHER CONDITION. Natural environmental factors such as rain, snow, sun, wind and temperature are very crucial in selecting location. These may improve or destroy your output depending on your story line.

Do not forget that your shooting facilities are also sensitive to these factors. For instance, exposing video cameras to rain, beach wind, or even moisture from water fountains or waterfall may cause damages not only to the equipment but also to your output. Too much brightness and hot temperature cause by sunlight can also damage your equipment if left exposed for too long.

Moreover, cold weather or low temperature can drain batteries quickly. This is true to all type of batteries but some perform better than others. So if you really need to take some scenes in very cold temperature consider using external battery pack as well. This will give you a chance to warm your batteries under your jacket.

Make sure to be prepared for these factors to avoid serious damages to your equipment and to secure smooth flow during shooting.

4. PAY ATTENTION TO AUDIO IMPACT. Use your camcorder’s microphone to check sounds surrounding a location. Silence can contribute a lot in achieving great audio results in your film. Also test wireless microphones, boom mikes, and any other audio recording devices at the site so you can listen closely to any interference. Always remember that high- quality sound is very important in making a video.

Consider noise caused by the environment including traffic, running water, echoes, and even movements that your microphone may catch. Going back to your story, choose the location that best fit the scene and the sound that you need.

5. OBSERVE LIGHT EFFECTS

INDOOR . There are settings that provide lower or higher amount of natural light without the help of electricity. Looking back into your story, it is important to figure out the lighting capacity of every location. Indoor locations such as rooms, homes, function halls, auditoriums, churches and temples, have lower amount of lights. You can try sample shoots to figure out what’s best thing to do in the area. If you need more light, check every corner of the location. You can open windows and curtain blinds to add light. In some cases, you may also add light equipment or consider replacing light bulbs. Just make sure to coordinate with somebody who is in charge of the place.

OUTDOOR. Natural light in any open air locations is challenging because it changes in any moment at any time. Check whether your ideal location is exposed to full sun during daylight, or covered by a tree or building shadows. Remember the basics of camera and equipment protection: Do not expose too long in high temperature. Bright sunlight is not good to people’s eyes (actors and staff) and can also cause automatic camcorder lenses to underexpose shots because full sunlight can surpass light colored background. Small amount of sunlight can also be tricky since almost of today’s camera are producing not so good contrast in this outdoor condition. Consider those fully shaded location because it generally gives better result.

6. SECURE POWER SOURCE. It is always ideal to be prepared especially with your power supplies. Even you have multiple battery packs reserved, the need to check nearest electrical connection is essential for a smooth shooting. There are outdoor and indoor locations that lack power connection so you have to consider its availability in scouting locations.
You might be needing power supplies for you additional lightings, battery charging and even cellphone charging. A location that has enough power supply is an advantage.

7. CONSIDER SPACE. In scouting for location you also have to consider adequate spaces aside from the place that you will use as a background of your film. Simply put, do this for your production equipment. Indoors may have extra rooms for your things, dressing area, and place where other staff working behind the camera can stay. Make sure outdoor locations have enough space too, where you can set up your shooting gears. It is important that you can move freely in these areas for comfortable working environment.

8. CHECK NEARBY FACILITIES. Checking facilities around the location is essential to ensure smooth flow of activities during shooting. These include the availability of telecommunication signals for your mobile phones or payphone in case of signal outage, food chains/shops just in case you need food, banks/ATM if you need extra cash, electronic stores for electrical supplies, medical clinics/hospitals, fire, and police stations in case of emergency.
Knowing these facilities will help you prepare for any challenges that will come across during the actual shooting. Problems are unavoidable, but preparation is just within reach. Be ready!

9. DOUBLE CHECK PROSPECT LOCATION. When you have already prospected possible locations, you need to double check. Visit again the places that you want to include in your film to check whether they are still suitable for your story most especially during the time of the shooting. Remember that conditions of locations change inevitably depending on the season, time of the day and even the day itself.

Checking again the factors that you like about your prospected locations will answer the questions: Are they still the same? Or not anymore? Will they be fit for your story? Or no? Will you still use the place in your film? Or will you remove it?

Again, situation of a certain location depends in so many factors, so, rechecking its availability and appropriateness is really a must.

10. OBEY LEGALITIES. Some of the places that you would like to know more about will require you legality works so try paying attention to this. They might require you black and white letter asking permission so you can fully check the area, or some may require you permits before you can go inside a prospect location. Better know if there are legal requirements because this will give you the confidence of fully evaluating the area.

On the other hand, if you are not required of those things, it is always better to ask permission verbally. Many owners will help you if you will tell your intention and will even assist you until you are done.

Along with this, also ask if there are things you need to do for legality sake prior to shooting especially if you will be using public sites such as parks, highways, cemeteries, government offices and private owned areas such as groceries, residential houses, and others.

This is very important to avoid interruption by authorities because your shooting is legal.

The Making of QMobile Noir S1Pro feat. Mahira Khan



From Benetone Films Europe, featuring London's stunning, beautiful attractions and wonderful smile from the gorgeous Mahira Khan.

Visit benetonefilms.com to view our other projects.

WildAid: Tony Jaa ‪#‎IvoryFree‬


Line produced for WildAid and WWF-Thailand ‪#‎IvoryFree‬

Starring international martial arts actor Tony Jaa. The #IvoryFree campaign highlights the impact of the Thai ivory trade on elephant poaching in Africa, where an estimated 33,000 elephants are killed each year for their tusks.

This PSA was produced by WildAid with the support of WWF, African Wildlife Foundation and Save the Elephants.

The 19th Shanghai International Film Festival


We're off to Shanghai to the 19th Shanghai International Film Festival on June 11-14, 2016. Interested in meeting up? Send us a note to set an appointment at contact@benetonefilms.com. We look forward to seeing you!


The making of QMobile Noir S2 from Benetone Films Europe


New from Benetone Films Europe for LU Bakeri. Line produced in one of Europe’s most beautiful destinations, Prague.

Visit benetonefilms.com to view our other projects.

We're going to Cannes!!


We're going down to Cannes for the film festival on May 11 -20, 2016. We will be located at the Thai Pavilion Stand #20.02 - 22.01 Booth#2. Interested in meeting up? Send us a note to set an appointment at contact@benetonefilms.com. We look forward to seeing you!


Thailand launches 20% production incentive

Source: Screendaily.com

The Thai government has approved a rebate for international productions that spend at least $1.5m.



Thailand has finally secured government approval for production incentives in the form of a 15-20% cash rebate on qualifying local spend.

Expected to kick in from January 2017, the incentive offers a 15% rebate on international productions that spend at least $1.5m in the country, with a yet-to-be determined upper limit to prevent a single big-budget production from emptying the pot.

An additional 3% is available for films that use key Thai cast or crew when shooting in the country and a further 2% for films that have particular value in promoting Thailand.

Thailand’s deputy prime minister Tanasak Patimapragorn and Minister of Tourism and Sports Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul were both in Cannes to announce the incentive. “We’ve been working very hard to come up with this scheme and we hope you’ll look at Thailand in a new light. We’re committed to making our country a dream destination for everybody,” said Wattanavrangkul.

Thailand is already one of Asia’s most popular filming locations – recent productions to shoot in the country include The Mechanic and Chinese thriller Battle Of Memories – but has been facing competition from countries that offer incentives such as Australia and Malaysia.

The Thai government has been working on an incentives scheme for several years. The new incentive will be managed by the Thailand Film Office, working with the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Commerce.

In 2015, a total of 63 feature films shot in Thailand compared to 41 the previous year. Nine features have filmed in Thailand in the first three months of 2016.


Joely Fisher To Make Directorial Debut With ‘Oliver Storm’

Source: Deadline.com


Joely Fisher is set to direct Oliver Storm for Benetone Films. The feature debut for the Ellen vet and Last Man Standing and Till Death actress is a family adventure penned by Emmy winner Gordon Bressack and his son James Cullen Bressack. Producers are Rachvin Narula, Kulthep Narula, Daemon Hillin.

Production will kick off in Thailand next year on the film that’s centered on introverted whiz kid Oliver Storm and his self-absorbed sister River. The pair embarks on an adventure through the streets of Bangkok and the jungles of Thailand to find their missing scientist parents.

When science and myth collide with the greed of an old colleague, Artemis Flood, Oliver is faced with a choice between saving his family or saving a mystical endangered forest that could heal the planet.

Fisher directed multiple episodes of Fox’s Till Death in 2010. She is currently helming Disney Channel’s KC Undercover and will next be seen in The Tribes Of Palos Verdes, the coming-of-age drama based on Joy Nicholson’s debut YA novel that’s toplined by Jennifer Garner. Fisher is repped by Janet Carol Norton at ICM, and managed by Todd Diener at Untitled Entertainment.


Feels Like Jockey - Benetone Films US

Check it out! Another project line produced by Benetone Films US for Jockey.

Shot around Los Angeles and Malibu, the campaign features dancers 'Feelin' Good' in their Jockey sleepwear and lingerie. At the helm of the campaign is Director, Isaac Ravishankara, who's directorial work includes music videos for Keith Urban, Ellie Goulding and Hozier.








Visit benetonefilms.com to view our other projects.


'Baaghi' official trailer featuring Tiger Shroff-Shraddha Kapoor is out now

 

The much-awaited trailer of the movie "Baaghi," starring Tiger Shroff and Shraddha Kapoor, is out now!

Line produced by Benetone Films, the film was shot in the beautiful mountain locations and beaches of Thailand.

The trailer features a combination of action sequences, romance, and daring stunts from Shraddha and Tiger showing off his impressive high flying, crazy kicks and punches.

The film is slated to release on 29th April 2016.

China TVC for California Almonds


Fun fact: 80% of the world’s almonds are grown in California. So when the Almond Board of California wanted to spread their marketing reach even further across the globe, they came to Benetone Films US!

Produced on the shores and in the orchards of California, today, this commercial airs all over China. Our multilingual international team will work with you to most effectively convey your message to your desired audience.

Visit benetonefilms.com to view our other projects.

Featured Director: Sorapan Kingpayome (Joe)

For this month, we are proud to feature one of Benetone Films' director: SORAPAN KINGPAYOME (JOE).

Joe graduated at King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang with a Bachelor of Fine, Department of Communication Arts and Design.


Joe has been involved in film work ever since his days in university. He is already an experienced film maker, editor and director of music videos. Besides this, he has also won awards for 16 mm. films. For him, commercials and art are one in the same. He tries to find new directions which break all established rules.

Joe’s work is modern, incorporating refreshingly new camera angles unlike anyone else. If you are open minded there are many more exciting ideas to be culled from him.


Benetone Films has access to the most elite pool of talent within Thailand as well as from different corners around the world. With our partners in Asia, US, Europe and Australia, we are able to tap into local and international Directors and Directors of Photography that best match the needs of the project. Visit benetonefilms.com to view our other projects.


Benetone Films to line produce Unveil Studios' "She Has A Name"

Another EXCITING NEWS from Benetone Films!!

We recently had the pleasure of line producing the film "She Has A Name" with Unveil Studios from Canada. It was a fantastic 16-days of shooting and collaborating.

"She Has A Name" is based on the critically acclaimed stage play by Andrew Kooman. It tackles the chilling subject of human trafficking in South East Asia and explores the layers of corruption that enable the sex tourism industry to thrive.

Unveil Studios is working with different human trafficking organizations for the film, so stay tuned as we keep you posted on its progress.




Benetone Films to line produce “Baaghi: A Rebel for Love” starring Paras Arora, Shraddha Kapoor and Tiger Shroff

Benetone Films is excited to line produce Sajid Nadiadwala’s next big venture, “Baaghi: A Rebel for Love” which will be directed by Sabbir Khan.

The film stars Paras Arora, Shraddha Kapoor and Tiger Shroff in lead roles, and is set to release on 29 April 2016.


This is not a first time that Benetone Films has had an opportunity of working with Sajid Khan and Sajid Nadiadwala. Over the last few years, the production house had line produced the indian comedy film, Housefull 2 in Thailand and we are proud to be a part of its massive success.

We'll keep you updated on the project's progress, SO STAY TUNED!!!

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