Thailand’s appeal as a location for film shoots and cinematic production was the theme of a road show in Hollywood led by Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya who headed a delegation of Thai officials and film industry professionals to the Thai Night 2013 and a celebration of Thai cinema on Halloween Night in California on October 31 –November 1.

The two-day trip included a symposium at Century City, the former location of 20th Century Fox studios, and included “match-making meetings” between Thai and United States film companies and leading figures.

The Princess, who lived in the United States for more than two decades, hosted a Halloween party showcasing Thai horror films, and conducted ‘match making’ events for industry representatives from both countries. The trip’s finale was a “Thai Night Halloween Special”party in Santa Monica that celebrated the horror and thriller films for which the Kingdom has become increasingly known.The party was presided over by PrincessUbolratana.

“Already famous for its stunning locations and the friendliness of its people, Thailand is now offering highly skilled crews and state-of-the-art production, post and special effects services, at very competitive prices,”Princess Ubolratana said during a speech to open the festivities.

“Through training, technological investments and exposure to foreign productions, the Thai film industry is now firmly established as one of the most dynamic and reliable production platforms in Asia,” she added.

The princess possesses first-hand experience in the entertainment industry, having hosted a popular television show and events aimed at keeping Thailand’s young people away from drugs. Since 2008, aside from taking part in ceremonies, responsibilities and charity work customary for members of Thailand’s royal family, she has also starred in two feature films: Where the Miracle Happens and My Best Bodyguard.

Her praise for Thailand was seconded by Lawrence Sher, director of photography for The Hangover Part II, which filmed for three months in the Kingdom. “They have superb resources, they’re enthusiastic and they’re hard-working,” he said.

Thailand’s film and television industry contributes US$2.22 billion to the economy, generates 86,600 jobs and raises $81 million in tax revenue, according to a recent study prepared by Oxford Economics.

This year, roughly 550 foreign productions have been filmed in Thailand, according to the country’s film office.But Thailand has a long history as a location for famous Hollywood films including The Deer Hunter, The Man With the Golden Gun, Around the World in 80 Days, Alexander and Star Wars: Revenge of the Sithamong many others.