Toei Signs Strategic Co Production Partnership with Thailand Major Player M STUDIO to Accelerate Global Film Production

Toei Co Ltd announced on the 16th that it has entered into a strategic co production partnership with M Distribution Co Ltd, known as M STUDIO, a leading entertainment company in Thailand.

Toei and M STUDIO Form Strategic Alliance for Global Expansion

Toei Co Ltd announced on the 16th that it has entered into a strategic co production partnership with M Distribution Co Ltd, known as M STUDIO, a leading entertainment company in Thailand.

This initiative is part of Toei Group mid to long term vision TOEI NEW WAVE 2033 and aims to reinforce the foundation for creating and distributing content for the global market. Through this partnership, both companies will jointly develop and produce Thai films with international audiences in mind, accelerating the creation and global rollout of content that can compete worldwide.

M STUDIO is a content production and distribution company under Major Cineplex Group, which operates the largest cinema chain in Thailand. In addition to film production, M STUDIO handles distribution in Thailand and neighboring countries as well as overseas licensing. Major Cineplex Group commands approximately 70 percent of the Thai cinema market and operates around 180 locations and 850 screens across Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia, holding a significant presence in Southeast Asia film industry.

The horror film Death Whisperer, distributed by M STUDIO in 2023, recorded over 500 million baht in box office revenue in Thailand, approximately 2.5 billion yen. Its sequel Death Whisperer 2 surpassed 800 million baht, approximately 4 billion yen, ranking first in Thailand annual box office revenue in 2024.

By combining M STUDIO creativity and regional strengths with Toei expertise in planning, production, and multi use development of international intellectual properties, the partnership aims to go beyond individual projects. The companies plan long term collaboration including the exchange of professional knowledge, sharing of production methods, and the establishment of new international distribution routes. Their goal is to create highly competitive and compelling content primarily for the Asian and broader international markets.

Executive Comments

■Fumio Yoshimura, Representative Director and President, Toei
Yoshimura stated that M STUDIO is a company with a clear creative vision and a firm position within the Thai film industry, describing the partnership as an important opportunity for Toei to move forward together with M STUDIO.

He praised Thai filmmakers for their outstanding storytelling talent supported by unique sensibilities. Through the partnership, Toei intends to provide comprehensive support in intellectual property development, production systems, production technology, and its long established overseas network.

Yoshimura emphasized the shared goal of creating films with international impact that respect their cultural roots while captivating audiences worldwide and achieving commercial success.

■Surachedh Assawaruenganun, Chief Executive Officer, M STUDIO
Assawaruenganun expressed that M STUDIO is deeply honored and delighted to partner with Toei, describing the Japanese studio as a global legend and a symbol of success in the Japanese film industry.

He noted that Toei not only produces hit content but also excels in long term intellectual property development and expanding Asian content into global markets. Through close collaboration from the earliest planning stages, the two companies will jointly develop ideas, select high potential projects, enhance production standards, and build international distribution strategies.

He concluded that M STUDIO aims to transform Thai cinema from local content focused on domestic audiences into a global business that creates value, maintains competitiveness, and achieves long term sustainability in the international market.

Source : ORICON NEWS