Thailand's natural wonders take centre stage in new Jurassic World film
Film enthusiasts and travellers alike will soon be able to follow in the footsteps of the blockbuster, which premieres on July 2, 2025.
Universal Pictures' Jurassic World: Rebirth, the newest chapter in the iconic Jurassic Park and Jurassic World franchise, saw director Gareth Edwards bring his entire production to Thailand.
The decision was simple: Thailand's rich, diverse ecosystems, encompassing majestic mountains, cascading waterfalls, and pristine seas, offered an unparalleled level of authenticity and visual splendour that no studio could replicate.
Filming took place across three of Thailand's esteemed national parks: Sunset Beach, Koh Kradan, and Morakot Cave (Emerald Cave) within Hat Chao Mai National Park in Trang Province; Huay To Waterfall and the ancient Sompong Tree in Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, Krabi Province; and Khao Ta Pu, Koh Song Phi Nong, and Koh Naka in Ao Phang Nga National Park, Phang Nga Province.
Additionally, select scenes were shot in the vibrant capital, Bangkok, and the northern city of Chiang Mai. These Thai locations will be seen on screen as the fictional Isla Nublar, Sorna, and other pivotal islands in the film.
Beyond the natural beauty, Thailand's robust film infrastructure played a crucial role. The country's state-of-the-art equipment, tools, and technology met the rigorous standards required for a Hollywood-scale production, proving its capacity to seamlessly support international film crews.
The ambitious shoot took place in 2024, spanning over a month from 13 June to 16 July, with a substantial budget exceeding 650 million Thai Baht (S$25.5 million).
The project generated significant local employment, involving over 500 Thai crew members and creating jobs and income for an impressive 2,245 Thai individuals.
The seventh roar: A new chapter
Jurassic World: Rebirth marks the seventh film in the dinosaur saga that began with Steven Spielberg's seminal Jurassic Park in 1993. The most recent release, Jurassic World Dominion in 2022, roared past the US$1 billion mark at the global box office.
Mr David Koepp, who famously adapted Mr Michael Crichton's original novel, penned the screenplay for this new instalment, with Mr Spielberg serving as executive producer. Together, they conceived the fresh narrative for 'Rebirth'.
The story picks up five years after the events of the sixth film, where it has become clear that Earth's current ecosystems are proving inhospitable for dinosaur survival.
However, a glimmer of hope emerges in a unique location whose environment closely mirrors their ancient habitat.
Here, three of the world's largest tropical biome creatures hold the key to producing a beneficial medicine, vital for humanity's survival.
Scarlett Johansson stars as Sora Bennett, a covert operations specialist, tasked with leading a highly skilled team – including Jonathan Bailey and Mahershala Ali – on a perilous secret mission.
Their objective: to collect genetic samples from three of the largest and most dangerous dinosaur species on this mysterious island for DNA extraction. But an unforeseen incident leaves Bennett stranded.
The film also features Rupert Friend and Manuel Garcia-Rulfo. Gareth Edwards, known for 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,' directs, working from Koepp's script. Frank Marshall and Patrick Crowley, original producers of the Jurassic franchise and 'Twisters,' produce, with Steven Spielberg, Denis L. Stewart, and Jim Spencer serving as executive producers.
Audiences worldwide will be treated to the magnificent panoramas and natural beauty of Thailand, showcased through pivotal scenes that capture the stunning seas and lush forests of the country's south.
The Jurassic World: Rebirth trailer has already garnered immense attention, topping viewership charts across Southeast Asia.
Jurassic World: Rebirth is set to open in cinemas on July 2, 2025.
Explore the Filming Locations:
Koh Kradan, Trang Province
Nestled in the Andaman Sea, Koh Kradan boasts incredibly fine, powdery white sand beaches and waters so clear you can easily spot schools of fish and the vibrant seabed below. The island is also encircled by diverse coral reefs.
While 70 per cent of the island is covered by towering mountains and dense rainforest, its eastern beach is the longest, hosting the main pier and a national park unit. Visitors will find camping areas and welfare shops.
A particular highlight is Sunset Beach on the island's west, a quaint 100-metre stretch of sand.
A picturesque 1-kilometre walking trail leads from the eastern beach, winding over small hills to Sunset Beach, offering one of the most breathtaking sunset views anywhere.
It's no wonder Lonely Planet recognised Sunset Beach as one of the 'Top 10 Best Beaches' in the world for 2025, and World Beach Guide consecutively crowned it the best beach globally in both 2023 and 2024.
Getting there: Chartering a boat from Pak Meng Pier, Kuan Tung Ku Pier, or Had Yao Pier will take you to Koh Kradan. The closest and most time-efficient option is Kuan Tung Ku Pier, with a 45-minute to 1-hour boat journey. A chartered boat (for 10-15 people) typically costs between 1,400-1,800 Baht per trip. Numerous local tour companies also arrange boat trips to Koh Kradan and neighbouring islands, with some offering transfers from Trang city, Trang railway station, and Trang Airport.
Huay To Waterfall, Krabi Province
Situated within Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, Huay To Waterfall is a grand cascade originating from the Phanom Bencha mountain range. It boasts five distinct levels: Wang Sam Hab, Wang Jong Loy, Wang Doi Prong, Wang Tewada, and Wang Ton Priew.
Though some levels reach 70-80 metres in height, the first level features a welcoming basin perfect for a dip. For the more adventurous, trails lead to higher levels, though caution is advised.
Huay To Waterfall flows consistently throughout the year, with a particularly strong current during the rainy season, especially around the cliffs. During the dry season, the water volume is lower. The waterfall is easily accessible via a comfortable walk from the National Park headquarters.
Getting there: The waterfall is car-accessible, with a short 500-metre walk from the car park.
The national park also boasts other charming smaller waterfalls nearby, including Huay Sa-de Waterfall (three levels, 300 metres from headquarters), Huay Niang Waterfall, Bang Saran Waterfall, various viewpoints, Khao Phueng Cave, natural springs, nature trails, and opportunities for trekking to Phanom Bencha Peak. Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, located in Krabi's Mueang District, provides accommodation, camping grounds, restaurants, and restrooms.
The Sompong Tree, Krabi Province
A magnificent 120-year-old ancient tree, the Sompong Tree is a unique landmark near Huay To Waterfall.
After turning off to the waterfall and crossing the bridge past the Chao Mae Khao Phanom Bencha Shrine, a short uphill walk of about 300 metres towards the first level of the waterfall will bring you to this unmissable highlight.
Khao Ta Pu (James Bond Island), Phang Nga Province
Part of Ao Phang Nga National Park, Khao Ta Pu, famously known as James Bond Island, is nestled in the northern reaches of the bay near Koh Khao Phing Kan, southwest of the national park headquarters and about 15 km along Khlong Ko Panyi.
This solitary, slender rock formation, wider at the top and narrow at its base, strikingly resembles a crab's eye. Geologically, it's classified as a sea stack.
For safety and preservation, Khao Ta Pu can only be viewed from a distance, either from a boat or from the sandbar of Koh Khao Phing Kan; visitors cannot disembark onto the island itself. The most unobstructed and scenic views are enjoyed from Koh Khao Phing Kan.
Ao Phang Nga National Park
Spanning three districts (Takua Thung, Ko Yao, and Mueang), Ao Phang Nga National Park is a coastal national park celebrated for its stunning coastline and rich mangrove forests. It encompasses approximately 40 islands east of Phuket, featuring iconic natural wonders like Khao Phing Kan, Khao Ta Pu, and Tham Lot (Lod Cave).
Ao Phang Nga National Park, located in Phang Nga's Mueang District, charges entrance fees of 60 Baht for Thai adults (30 Baht for children) and 300 Baht for foreign adults (100 Baht for children). The park offers accommodation and camping sites from 800-1,000 Baht, alongside restaurants, souvenir shops, and restrooms.
Getting There: One-day tour packages are available from piers in Phang Nga and Phuket. Alternatively, you can charter a boat from various piers in Phang Nga, including Tha Dan Pier (Mueang Phang Nga), Surakul Pier (Takua Thung), or Ban Hin Rom Pier (Takua Thung).
Morakot Cave (Emerald Cave), Trang Province
Located on the western side of Koh Mook within Hat Chao Mai National Park, Morakot Cave is a truly unique experience. Entry requires visitors to float in a group through an 80-metre dark passage from the cave mouth.
Upon emerging, sunlight reflects off the water, illuminating it with a breathtaking emerald green hue. Beyond this passage lies a vast cave chamber, revealing a pristine white sand beach encircled by towering cliffs and bathed in natural light.
Hat Chao Mai National Park, located in Trang's Sikao District
Entrance fees are 40 Baht for Thai adults (20 Baht for children) and 200 Baht for foreign adults (100 Baht for children). Please note that the park's Koh Mook area is closed annually for nature rehabilitation from 1 June to 30 September.
Getting There: Boats can be chartered from Pak Meng Pier, Sikao District, with a journey time of 40 minutes. Alternatively, day-trip packages are offered by tour operators near Pak Meng Pier, or boats can be chartered from Kuan Tung Ku Pier in Kantang District to Morakot Cave. THE NATION/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New Paper
16 hours ago
- New Paper
SIA flights from S'pore to Cambodia and Thailand operating normally amid border dispute
All Singapore Airlines (SIA) flights between Singapore and Cambodia, as well as between Singapore and Thailand, continue to operate normally despite a deadly border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia. A spokesperson for the SIA Group said its top priority is the safety of customers and its employees. "We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will adjust our flights where necessary," the spokesperson added. A long-simmering border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia escalated to deadly violence on July 24 as their military forces clashed at multiple spots, leaving at least 12 people dead. The flare-up is part of a broader disagreement with origins stretching back more than a century and involves parts of a region known as the Emerald Triangle, where the boundaries of Thailand, Cambodia and Laos meet. The leaders of Thailand and Cambodia will attend mediation talks over their deadly border conflict in Malaysia on July 28 at 3pm local time at the Malaysian Prime Minister's Office in Kuala Lumpur. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim invited representatives from both countries. Malaysia, which chairs the regional grouping Asean, has informed the Thai government that Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet would also be attending the talks, the statement said. According to The Nation, flights between Thailand and Cambodia are continuing as normal, as Cambodia's declared restricted area is limited and does not significantly impact air traffic departing from Thailand. Alternative flight paths are also readily available.
Straits Times
17 hours ago
- Straits Times
‘Repaying my fans': Singer Show Lo to give his all at 30th anniversary concert in Singapore
Taiwanese singer Show Lo will be performing at the Resorts World Ballroom on Aug 16 as part of his Show Lo 30th World Tour Concert 2025. SINGAPORE – Show Lo might have been in the entertainment business for three decades, but the Taiwanese singer is still going all out to give back to his fans. In August 2024, he held a free autograph session in Taipei to promote his latest album Wu Zhuang Yuan (2024). Not only did the event last a whopping 12 hours, but Lo also allowed and even encouraged supporters to bring past albums for him to sign all at once. Singers typically autograph only their most recent release. Over a Zoom interview from Taipei with The Straits Times on July 11, the 45-year-old explained: 'There are very few autograph sessions organised nowadays, so fans don't have many opportunities to get the albums they've gathered over the years signed. I wanted to do that for them at one go.' Were his hands tired from signing autographs for half a day? He replied: 'I was more concerned about the fans queueing in the heat, especially those who queued overnight.' Fans can expect the same generosity and thoughtfulness when Lo's 30th anniversary tour makes a stop at Resorts World Ballroom on Aug 16. He last performed a solo concert here at the Singapore Indoor Stadium in 2023, and also did a 40-minute set during the One Love Asia Festival Singapore 2022 music festival at the Bayfront Event Space. On both occasions, he walked off the stage to interact with the audience, shaking hands, giving high-fives and posing for photos. This is his favourite segment of the concert, he said. 'It allows me to connect with them up close.' Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore Tanjong Katong sinkhole backfilled; road to be repaved after LTA tests Singapore Tanjong Katong Road sinkhole did not happen overnight: Experts Singapore Not feasible for S'pore to avoid net‑zero; all options to cut energy emissions on table: Tan See Leng Singapore With regional interest in nuclear energy rising, S'pore must build capabilities too: Tan See Leng Singapore New Mandai North Crematorium, ash-scattering garden to open on Aug 15 Singapore Authorities say access to Changi intertidal areas unaffected by reclamation, in response to petition World US and EU clinch deal with broad 15% tariffs on EU goods to avert trade war Asia Displaced villagers at Thai-Cambodian border hope to go home as leaders set to meet for talks Another highlight of Lo's shows is the unscripted 'freestyle' onstage banter. 'I will bounce off the crowd's response – their cries and facial expressions,' he said. 'It is definitely more than just me singing and dancing. In fact, some friends say they particularly enjoy the talking parts during my shows.' At his upcoming Singapore performance, expected to last 2½ hours, he is also likely to chat with his backup dancers. At his 2022 gig here, for example, he plugged a dancer's social media handle and individual projects mid-show. One highlight of Taiwanese singer Show Lo's concerts is his banter, not only with the audience, but also with his backup dancers. PHOTO: SHAW BROTHERS LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND SLIDING DOORS ENTERTAINMENT He said: 'I believe everybody on stage is a main character, so I want audiences to also get to know my dancers.' His team, he said, is a close-knit group. In more unfamiliar locations, they even travel together as part of a tour group. Even after the show ends, he enjoys interacting with fans on social media, replying to their video clips and thanking them for coming. Singapore holds a special place for him, having visited many times since the 2000s. Thinking back to his early interactions with his local supporters, Lo said: 'They would make a 'rocker' hand sign to me, which I found strange because I am not a rock star.' But later on, he realised the sign could also mean 'I love you'. 'Few fans make that sign these days. They now make the South Korean 'heart' sign with their fingers, which can also mean 'money',' he added with a laugh. Singapore fans have also gifted him with local food such as pandan cake and Hainanese curry rice. 'In the 2000s, many of them stood in the hot weather at my outdoor performances and fanned themselves with the lyric booklets. They looked so cute,' he recalled warmly. His current tour is titled Show Lo's 30th World Tour, and celebrates his 30 years in show business since 1995, when he won a singing and dancing competition in Taiwan with his impersonation of Hong Kong Heavenly King Aaron Kwok. His early dance inspirations also included Hong Kong-born singer Alex To, Taiwanese pop-rap group L.A. Boyz and the late American superstar Michael Jackson. Lo's early dance inspirations included Hong Kong Heavenly King Aaron Kwok, Hong Kong-born singer Alex To, Taiwanese pop-rap group L.A. Boyz and the late American superstar Michael Jackson. PHOTO: SHAW BROTHERS LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND SLIDING DOORS ENTERTAINMENT Over the decades, Lo has released 14 albums – 13 in Mandarin and one in Japanese. His most recent, Wu Zhuang Yuan, features traditional Chinese instruments such as the suona, erhu and guzheng. Such instrumentation, he said, is a return to the style of one of his most popular dance hits, Dance Gate (2006), which features a Chinese flute. Lo's current tour, which is in support of this album, kicked off in Kaohsiung in December 2024 and has travelled to Tokyo and Macau. He said: 'I love touring because it allows fans everywhere to see a show I prepared for them.' 'Thirty years is a big milestone for me, and my show will feature many familiar songs with new arrangements. Giving it my all, I feel, is the best way for me to repay my fans for the decades of support and love.' Book it/Show Lo 30th World Tour Concert 2025
Straits Times
17 hours ago
- Straits Times
SIA flights between S'pore and Cambodia, S'pore and Thailand, operating normally amid border dispute
Find out what's new on ST website and app. A spokesperson for the SIA Group said its top priority is the safety of customers and its employees. SINGAPORE – All Singapore Airlines (SIA) flights between Singapore and Cambodia, as well as between Singapore and Thailand, continue to operate normally despite a deadly border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia. A spokesperson for the SIA Group said its top priority is the safety of customers and its employees. 'We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will adjust our flights where necessary,' the spokesperson added. A long-simmering border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia escalated to deadly violence on July 24 as their military forces clashed at multiple spots, leaving at least 12 people dead. The flare-up is part of a broader disagreement with origins stretching back more than a century and involves parts of a region known as the Emerald Triangle, where the boundaries of Thailand, Cambodia and Laos meet. The leaders of Thailand and Cambodia will attend mediation talks over their deadly border conflict in Malaysia on July 28 at 3pm local time at the Malaysian Prime Minister's Office in Kuala Lumpur. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim invited representatives from both countries. Malaysia, which chairs the regional grouping Asean, has informed the Thai government that Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet would also be attending the talks, the statement said. According to The Nation, flights between Thailand and Cambodia are continuing as normal, as Cambodia's declared restricted area is limited and does not significantly impact air traffic departing from Thailand. Alternative flight paths are also readily available.
