Understanding Thailand
History, Culture and Politics For Storytellers
What do you know about Thailand?
As a storyteller heading to Thailand, it’s important to get a feel for the country’s culture, history, and politics. Having this background will not only enrich your experience but also help you connect more meaningfully with the people you meet and the stories you’ll tell.
To help you get ready, we’ve pulled together a set of videos that highlight some of Thailand’s key issues, traditions, and lesser-known realities. From political history and environmental challenges to the vibrant street food scene and the struggles of local communities, these resources will set you up to tell authentic, impactful stories that truly reflect the heart of Thailand.
TO WATCH
GEOGRAPHY NOW! THAILAND
Get a fast-paced, no-nonsense tour of Thailand’s geography, culture, and history in this fun and quirky video. From street food to hill tribes, this quick dive gives you all the essentials in just a few minutes—perfect for filmmakers who need to hit the ground running.
DO'S + DONT'S IN THAILAND
Get a quick rundown of the top 10 do’s and don’ts for visiting Thailand, straight from the experts. This video is a must-watch for anyone heading to Bangkok who wants to avoid common mistakes and show respect for Thai culture from day one.
WHY THAILAND ESCAPED COLONIALISM
Uncover how Thailand skillfully resisted the destructive forces of colonialism that swept through Southeast Asia. This video highlights the clever diplomacy and resilience that allowed Thailand to remain independent, offering critical historical insight into the region’s complex colonial legacy.
INSIDE THE SAFEST SLUM IN BANGKOK
Step into the realities of Khlong Toei, Bangkok’s largest slum, where poverty and resilience collide in this powerful documentary. Through stunning cinematography, the film exposes the hidden struggles of the community and challenges harmful media stigmas—an eye-opening look at the lives of those who keep the city running.
FOODIE (NOT TOURIST) GUIDE TO BANGKOK
Explore Thailand’s vibrant street food scene with a focus on authentic, must-try dishes that capture the heart of the country’s culinary culture. This video gives you a taste of the flavors and techniques behind some of Thailand’s most iconic street food, perfect for anyone eager to dive into the local food scene.
BANGKOK IN 4K
Take in stunning aerial views of Bangkok in this 4K drone footage, highlighting the city’s dynamic skyline and vibrant streets. This video offers a fresh perspective on Thailand’s capital, showcasing its mix of modern architecture and cultural landmarks
MODERN DAY SLAVERY IN THAILAND
Expose the harsh truth of Thailand’s fishing industry, where modern-day slavery fuels the global demand for cheap seafood. This documentary reveals how exploitation continues in plain sight, highlighting the human cost behind one of Thailand’s largest industries.
THAILAND AND THE FALLOUT OF MASS TOURISM
Mass tourism is taking a devastating toll on Thailand’s coral reefs and coastal communities. This documentary uncovers the environmental and social consequences of untreated sewage, plastic waste, and overfishing, showing how tourism-driven destruction is threatening both marine life and local livelihoods