Strategies of Thai Independent Filmmakers in Creating Films for Submission to International Film Festivals

Abstract

       The objectives of this research were to study similarity in formula and content of Thai independent cinemas which is selected to screen in international film festivals around the world and to study strategies of Thai independent filmmakers when submitting their works to renowned international film festivals. The study is a qualitative research which based on content analysis and in-depth interview and be revealed by descriptive analysis methodology. The scope focuses on 12 Thai independent films released between 2000 and 2025, directed by 11 filmmakers. These 12 films were selected based on two criteria: they must have been screened at internationally recognized festivals and represent the early works of directors who were relatively unknown at the time of selection, ensuring that the committees' decisions were based on the merits of the work rather than the producers' reputations. These 12 films are materials for analysis of its 7 elements of narrative structures. Furthermore, in-depth interview methodology was conducted with Thai filmmakers, producers as well as international film festival program director.

       The study revealed that most of Thai independent films among international film festivals had some formulas in their narrative structures, similarity in their kind of characters, using of symbol as metaphor, significance of setting, and the depiction of conflicts between individuals and social systems. Whereas these films had distinction in plot structures, theme, and narrator’s point of view, depending on individual aspects or imagination of its filmmakers. Apart from that, the study revealed strategies of Thai independent filmmakers that they tended to submit their films to reputable secondary-tier festivals rather than the highly competitive "Big Five" (Cannes, Venice, Berlin, Toronto, and Sundance). While the film festival program committee preferred unique films or films which represent local theme rather than formulated films or films with universal theme.