Phuket tsunami film ‘The Impossible’ drawing crowds, but no criticism

PHUKET: Although initially thought by some as insensitive, The Impossible, which recounts a Spanish family’s survival and struggle to be reunited in the wake of the devastating 2004 tsunami, is drawing crowds, but no criticism, in Phuket.

The blockbuster film starring Naomi Watts and Ewan McGregor was shot at a variety of locations in Phuket, with many extras being chosen from the local expat community.

“It has been showing in our theater since November 29, and so far many people have come to see the film,” an employee at Jungceylon Phuket SF Cinema City told the Phuket Gazette.

“There were no special instructions from our headquarters in Bangkok and we have not received any negative feedback from the audiences; no complaints, emails or phone calls about the movie,” he said.

“Since the disaster occurred years ago, I believe that time has healed many of the feelings of loss and sadness in many people. I think that’s why the movie can be shown in cinemas,” he added.

— Orawin Narabal