Thailand: temples, nature and a notorious nightlife (video)
– Reposted article from November 7, 2010 –
Sometimes you are pleasantly surprised when you struggle through the emails. Chris Verboven, a Belgian amateur filmmaker, sent me a film about it Thailand which he made.
Because there was no further explanation, I asked him what purpose he had in mind. He informed me by e-mail that he wanted to make an informative film about Thailand that also included sex tourism, but not as the main subject.
Bargirl as a guide in Bangkok
A bargirl acted as a guide in Bangkok. He then traveled to Kanchanaburi where he filmed the bridge over the Kwai River. Then to Pattaya to film life there.
It was not easy to get cooperation for the film. The Ladyboys in particular were difficult to persuade to work with. In some cases because the family does not know that they work in Pattaya. Filmmakers and journalists are viewed with suspicion. Too often Pattaya is portrayed negatively by journalists. An interview with the tourist police was therefore not possible. Only an officer of the Thai police wanted to be interviewed. He chose his words carefully. When asked why the tourists come to Pattaya, he said: “For one reason only. The beautiful beach".
Chris wrote to me that the film was denounced in Belgium (on a Pattaya forum). They thought it was a sad film, with falsehoods and prejudices. Chris was also accused of the story about the bridge over the River Kwai being incorrect.
What did we think of the movie?
I have to compliment Chris on the quality of the camera work and editing. Of course there are some clichés. But as I've said many times before. The annoying thing about clichés is that they are usually true. It is not a spectacular film and therefore does not fit into the 'Big Trouble in Tourist Thailand' category. Fortunately not, because I found that too sensational. The film contains little news for experienced Thailand visitors, but I still enjoyed watching it. Again, well made in the knowledge that Chris is an amateur filmmaker who has tried to make an informative film about Thailand and nightlife. Depending on the target group – the average tourist – I think he has succeeded.
The film lasts a total of 32 minutes and consists of three parts.
Part 1.
[youtube]http://youtu.be/5jBfPGGFGWI[/youtube]
.
Part 2.
[youtube]http://youtu.be/Uth6guq9XV4[/youtube]
.
Part 3.
[youtube]http://youtu.be/QbtMteQyRLA[/youtube]
I've watched the videos and it's pretty good. I can't see it being an amateur filmmaker. The spoken texts sound a bit old-fashioned, which is also possible because I'm not used to Flemish. There are errors in the text, such as Nasa Plaza instead of Nana Plaza.
The subject of sex tourism has been brought up so many times. He would have done better to grab 1 topic by the head and dig it out. Now it's a nice movie but the subjects are already so chewed out. I wonder if anyone is waiting for the umpteenth movie about Thailand with temples and nightlife.
Hello all,
I think it's a nice and beautiful video, although it is indeed a bit cliché-like, but it gives a good picture of Thailand and I had to laugh when the head of police said that people came to Pattaya for the beach...... …….???????????? yah yah. ....I also thought it was a nice film and I would like to have it on my Hyves site
( Hyves about Thailand ), but I can't copy it there, I don't see a url !!
Now I can try it via You tube, I suddenly change my mind, I'm going to try it, but I want to compliment Chris Verboven on his film and I've already googled his name and there are several of his films to see, which will I'll check it out, nice!! Chappo Cris!!
Greetings to all Linda.
Let's be honest, those positive comments about the beach are quite appropriate. In Zandvoort I first have to rent a chair, put it down, put someone on guard and then go back to the pavilion to bring a beer to my chair about 100 meters away.
Then give me Thailand. At your service! Your bath towel will even be installed for you and then the treats will fly past your chair...
And the water is still nice and warm (30 degrees?)
Well, I don't need a massage, but still...
Frank F
I still think it (despite being an old article) is a great movie.
As a real Thailand goer or expat you have to look through it a bit.
The opinion about Thai women who only like Thai men is wrong
of course nothing. Even if you have a restaurant in Pattaya or you are a retired singer, that does not mean that you have the wisdom.
Often it is about what they have personally experienced.
Maybe take a look in the mirror and think.
J. Jordan
great. neatly recorded and clear. So a nice and well put together video.
greetings, henk
I just enjoyed watching it because I recognized a lot of moments from it. The New Year in particular made a big impression on me. Because it involves water ballet and smearing it with a type of flour, which is done with a good laugh. That makes Thailand a beautiful country, my compliments for that.
Herman
Congratulations, really a very good report, really gives a very good picture of part of Thai society and the country.
Congratulations, beautiful editing, beautiful report, I enjoyed it, I would like to come back and have many beautiful and good memories, beautiful country and friendly people, beautiful nature, what more could one ask for? I will definitely be back.
Dear fellow amateur,
I have been making films for many years. Because of my work worldwide, I have many hours of film material. This way I know all too well what the recording and especially the editing requires of the filmmaker.
This film will not meet the expectations of the so-called "pros" here and there.
If you are aware of your mistakes, things can be changed. However, always follow your own line and try to make your idea clear to the viewer.
For me, this movie is worth watching.
Yours faithfully,
Serious.
An outlier among the you tube videos. My compliments too!