Thairath Group, in collaboration with the Department of Cultural Promotion, Ministry of Culture, organizes a film festival. "Open Thai Screen, Drive Culture" Aiming to unlock the potential of Thai films from entertainment media to cultural tools, offering free screenings of nine Thai films in the heart of the city.
Thanwalai Watcharaphol, Content Executive at Thairath Online, revealed that forThairath Group,We recognize that Thai films are not just entertainment but also offer ideas, beliefs, and portray the lifestyles of Thai people across various eras. This event is organized to connect people within the film industry—including government, private sector, creators, and audiences—through discussion forums, exhibitions, business matching activities, and a short film competition to exchange views and open new opportunities to advance Thai cinema further.
Chotika Akkarajitsophakul, Director-General of the Department of Cultural Promotion, spoke about the strategic approach: the department views films not only as entertainment but as a powerful medium for cultural communication, showcasing Thai identity and excellence to the world. The department’s three main strategies are: supporting budgets to enhance production from scriptwriting, providing platforms for Thai creators to showcase works at international festivals, and naturally integrating cultural assets such as food, fashion, traditional festivals, Muay Thai, handicrafts, and filming locations into films.
The Director-General also emphasized removing barriers to open opportunities for the younger generation, with the government ready to facilitate by reviewing regulations and supporting producers to present innovative and contemporary ideas within appropriate content, not limited to academic, documentary, or historical works.
Chotika stated that the ultimate goal, beyond improving quality and sustainability of the film industry, is to elevate Thailand’s status as ASEAN’s creative hub. Thailand is ready to compete, with Thai content—especially action genres and filming locations—already recognized regionally. When global audiences appreciate Thai charm through films, this will generate tourism income and experiences in Thailand.
Regarding the event, "Open Thai Screen, Drive Culture" will be held from 11-13 September 2026 at the G floor, Semi Outdoor zone, from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Samyan Mitrtown Shopping Center. The event includes an Exhibition Zone showcasing new perspectives on film, culture, and Thai identity; a Business Matching area to develop ideas into industry; and the Short Film Award, a competition for university student filmmakers with a total prize of 180,000 baht.
Another highlight is SIAM CINEMA, which will screen famous Thai films for free on a giant screen all day in the atmosphere of "Siam in the Open Air." Featured films include Fan Chan, Sapha Ro, Boonchu the Lovely, Kan Kluay, Mon Rak Transistor, Friends, Wiman Nam, Mahalay Muang Rae, and Nee Tam Galileo. Each film portrays society, lifestyles, beliefs, and relationships through distinct cinematic languages, accompanied by discussions on the future of Thai films with real directors and filmmakers.