Armenia’s State Funding for Film Productions
Armenia’s film industry has recently been exploring avenues to attract foreign productions The National Cinema Center of Armenia provides state funding through grants and competitions held twice a year, targeting full-length and short films, animation, and creative documentaries. While discussions are going on concerning proposed tax incentives and private equity funding mechanisms, these initiatives currently remain under development. This creates uncertainty for filmmakers seeking immediate and reliable support.
The absence of actual rebate values, additional incentives being highly limited, and a general requirement for foreign filmmakers to find an Armenian co-producer of their project may complicate production.
By contrast, Thailand offers a well-established and highly attractive tax rebate system for international filmmakers, providing robust support and seamless collaboration.
Thailand Film Tax Rebate
Thailand has emerged as a premier destination for international film production, thanks to its comprehensive tax rebate system and unmatched production infrastructure.
It also has a baseline rebate of 15% and other additional bonuses that increase to as much as 20% under specific conditions, depending on factors like boosting tourism, the use of Thai talent, and other criteria. In addition, there’s a special economic booster from Thailand for projects with more than $2.9 million in local expenditure. With a cap at $4.4 million per project, it certainly is one of the more generous but still accessible programs.
These incentives are rounded out by Thailand’s streamlined process for applications, which requires registration in advance of shooting and guarantees that filmmakers can focus on creative pursuits, not bureaucratic hurdles. Rich cultural backdrops, advanced post-production facilities, and supportive policies create an unmatched value proposition in Thailand for filmmakers.
Thailand Tax Rebate vs. Armenia Tax Rebate
| Incentive Category | Thailand | Armenia |
|---|---|---|
| Value | 20%+ | Lacks clarity |
| Application Deadline | The application can be submitted whenever the production is set to start. | Biannual competitions |
| Application Clarity | Clear guidelines and deadlines, making it easier to control your production schedule and time | Lacks Clarity on many points |
| Additional Value | Bonuses for promoting tourism, hiring Thai talent, and utilizing designated locations | None |
Thailand Filming Locations
Pine Forest
Pine forests in the northern region of Thailand blanket the mountains and hills, setting up a perfect backdrop and ambiance for any film production.
Western Houses
Unknown to many, western houses are located outside of Bangkok, ideal for filming. These houses are beautifully built, structurally sound, and mimic homes built in the West.
Studios
Bangkok is home to a multitude of studios, equipped with the latest equipment, sound systems, lights, and everything a production team needs. Filmmakers can easily find and rent a studio in Bangkok without traveling far to find one.
City
Bangkok’s bustling metropolis with neon-dotted cityscape sets the tone for any film production in the heart of the city. Meandering through the heart is the famed Chao Phraya River, perfect for capturing heartfelt and romantic scenes along the river boasting a rich backdrop showcasing Thailand’s icon temples and pagodas.
Islands
With over a thousand islands dotting Thailand’s rolling coastline and the Andaman Sea, each island has charm, mystery, and beauty. Towering, jagged cliffs remain untouched by human hands and serve as a home to the wild animals hiding within the rock crevasses or underwater schisms.
Beaches
Thailand’s sun-kissed beaches are second to none. Layered with soft, white, silky sand, crystal clear waters, and lush terrain, Thailand’s southern beaches serve as the ideal filming location for dramas, romantic comedies, and action and adventure films.
Mountains
North Thailand is home to impressive, lush mountain ranges. During winter months, Doi Inthanon and Doi Suthep are cloaked in a sea of fog and the grass is blanketed by dewdrops every morning.
Set Buildings
Crew & Gear
Thailand has a big pool of internationally trained crew members who have extensive experience on blockbusters, international TV series, and high-end commercials. Most of the crew speaks English, which means that foreign production teams face no problem in communicating with them. Availability of local crew ensures lower costs without compromising on quality standards.
More than crew expertise, Thailand’s status as a production center in Asia ensures that access to the most recent and high-quality equipment and gear is guaranteed. Whatever your need for specialized cameras, lighting, or any other technical gear, sourcing it in Thailand is a smooth exercise.
Mbrella Films is a leading production service in Thailand, offering comprehensive support to international filmmakers, from development through post-production. With over a decade of experience, Mbrella ensures your production is handled efficiently and professionally:
- Location Scouting and Logistics: Mbrella makes it easy to search for perfect locations and acquire necessary permits.
- Crew and Equipment Hire: Access the best crew with the latest equipment through Mbrella’s immense network.
- Producers who speak English take care of you from preparations through the very end of production to make sure shooting runs smoothly and successfully.
Ready to make the most of your next production? Let us connect you to a local producer who can help you prequalify for Thailand’s rebate program.
