Archives for The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio

"The school's 'The Beach' web site reflects tireless and comprehensive efforts; it features massive amounts of written materials in English language and photos about the movie and related issues, including a lot of tourism information on Thailand." - The Nation

This is the most comprehensive index of clippings for a movie on the internet. When we printed out the newspaper articles covering the pre-production and production periods, the book we printed ran to just over 200 pages! This didn't count the press releases and exclusive reports that can be read in the Press Room. A lot more has been added since.The latest news clipping always appear on the Beach Watch page first before being moved here. You can either click on the month you are looking for below or scroll down to find a particular article. Articles with the name of the magazine in brown are kept on separate pages. If there is a particular word or subject you are looking for, then you might like to try using our search engine. Translations of the Thai tabloids are kept on a different page. These newspapers were translated on a daily basis by students and teachers at Sriwittayapaknam School. Available so far are reviews for the trailer, script and an early test screening. We also have some articles from the extras who worked on the film: Emily Barr, Rolf Potts and Brad Gishen. Join our mailing list to receive all the latest news about The Beach and the film-makers.

Pre Production | Production | Post Production

July 98 | Oct 98 | Nov 98 | Dec 98

Jan 99 | Feb 99 | Mar 99 | Apr 99 | May 99 | June 99 | Aug 99 | Sep 99 | Oct 99 | Nov 99 | Dec 99

Jan 2000 | Feb 2000 | Mar 2000

Check Beach Watch first for all the latest news.

January 2000

Trouble on Fantasy Island, (January 2000), Outside Magazine. Twentieth Century Fox sought out an isolated tropical beach in Thailand. Then they put Leonardo DiCaprio on it. And then created a vision of wilderness despoiled by a tale of wilderness despoiled. Out of which unfolds a media fable with real-life consequences in a world haunted by travelers' dreams of paradise.
Vive la difference (Saturday 8th January 2000), The Times. She stars in The Beach with Leonardo DiCaprio, and has been hailed as the new Brigitte Bardot and Catherine Deneuve. But Virginie Ledoyen has no truck with comparisons. She tells Mark Salisbury she can only be herself.
In Search of Leonardo DiCaprio's Beach Paradise (Saturday 8th January 2000), The Times. It’s not the most obvious place to start one's search for paradise. Bangkok's Khao San Road was, until the late Seventies, just another congested, pollution-ridden downtown side street
Lost in Paradise (February, 2000), Premiere Magazine. Leonardo DiCaprio emerges from the warm turquoise-blue waters of the Andaman Sea like a later-day Robinson Crusoe, staggering onto this particular desert island dressed in faded burgundy T-shirt and shorts, a bright blue plastic bag tied tight around his waist.
Talk Magazine (January), Talk Magazine. The Beach is a story about how the human animal is predisposed to trample paradise. To me the island is extremely symbolic of man's relationship with earth, and how we've been put on this paradise, and we don't know what to do with it.... When Richard finds paradise, he realizes that he is still dissatisfied... As a result, he destroys paradise.
Leo Goes Hawaiian (Jan. 16, 2000) This was no mere press junket. This was a Leo press junket. And the only thing racing harder than the 35-plus-mph winds across the Ritz-Carlton here over the weekend were press theories about why the star of the upcoming film "The Beach" wanted to be anywhere but.
Leonardo DiCaprio unhappy with movie rumours (18th January 2000) Leonardo DiCaprio is feeling used, abused and a little bitter over the mud slung at his new movie The Beach.
DiCaprio finds space to grow up on screen (Tuesday, January 18, 2000) Leonardo DiCaprio has admitted that he enjoyed making The Beach more than Titanic.
Leo Munches Caterpillar (18/01/2000) The Beach star Leonardo Di Caprio has perfected a handy technique to fool viewers into believing he eats a caterpillar.
David Poland at Roughcut.com (18/01/2000) I went to Maui on Friday. I got in after 10 with a few other journalists, so our hour-long ride to the hotel didn't allow us much sightseeing. But I still was happier than the two Canadians we were with, who had spent in excess of 15 hours making the trip to Maui from the frozen tundra.
Leonardo dives into ‘The Beach’ (Tuesday, January 18, 2000) 'Titanic' star talks about his latest film while visiting Maui
Orbital team up with 'Titanic' Star (22/1/2000) ORBITAL have teamed up with Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio on a new track called 'Beached' - and it's set to be released as a single on February 28 through London.
The Beach Inspires Top Threads (21/01/2000) UK chain stores Top Man and Top Man are hoping to take advantage of the the shining light that is Leo DiCaprio. The stores are official clothes sponsors of the much-anticipated The Beach, and are planning to launch a new range of special clothing range named (surprise, surprise) "The Beach" next month.
All That Junk (January 21, 2000) Maui, Hawaii — Reaction to the screening was strong and sustained. Enthusiasm was brimming for Leonardo’s new film THE BEACH during its first official International Press Junket.
Greens hoping 'The Beach' is a washout (23rd January 2000) While the movie ''The Beach'' starring Leonardo DiCaprio is expected to score big at the box office, some critics in Thailand hope the film sinks like the Titanic.

December 1999

Leo Breaks Silence (1st December 1999) Leonardo di Caprio broke cover in the States this week to speak for the first time about the filming of The Beach in Thailand.
Beach Boys and Girls (2nd December) Blur, Leftfield, Asian Dub Foundation, Orbital and All Saints have all been added to the soundtrack to The Beach, Leonardo DiCaprio's upcoming new movie, directed by Trainspotting's Danny Boyle and based on the bestseller by Alex Garland.
Faithless hit The Beach (2nd December) Faithless have come out of hibernation to record a brand new track for Danny Boyle's new film ‘The Beach’, which stars Leonardo DeCaprio.
The Maya controversy rages on (6th December 1999) The only thing certain about Maya Beach is that it is a disaster, writes. I am no stranger to Maya Beach on Phi Phi Islands. Recently I visited the site, probably Thailand's most famous (or infamous) because of the film ''The Beach'', for the third time this year.
Pumped up after training Leo for his Beach! (December 10, 1999) To meet Leonardo DiCaprio is every fan's dream. Cornel Chin's experience went miles further. He was the heart-throb's personal trainer on the set of his new movie.
Beach's role in tourism push angers greens (December 11, 1999) Thai environmentalists are furious that tourism offices are using a Hollywood film, The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, to promote the country while the producer stands accused of ruining an idyllic bay during shooting.
Greens cheer at Thai tourism blue (Monday December 13th, 1999) Environmentalists could not believe their luck when the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) announced plans to use 20th Century Fox's The Beach, starring Hollywood heart-throb Leonardo DiCaprio, to promote island getaways.
Paradise Online (14th December 1999) For those of you counting the days until Leonardo DiCaprio returns to your screens, here's something to whet your appetite. The first international trailer for 'The Beach' is now starring at Leo's own website.
Lisette lands part in Di Caprio film (24 Dec. 1999) LISETTE Brookes of Cranleigh has been bitten by the acting bug after winning a small speaking part with Leonardo Di Caprio in the Hollywood star's latest film. Lisette, 28, and her boyfriend, Adam Abrahams, who live in Horsham Road, were travelling in Thailand earlier this year when they learned that auditions were being held for the film, The Beach.
On the Beach with Leonardo DiCaprio (December 1999), Studio Magazine. One of the most anticipated movies of the new year. A very closed set, at the end of the world. The first project of DiCaprio after Titanic.

November 1999

Leo Gets a Date...And Lawsuit (Monday November 1) Ladies and gentleman, mark your calendars, and prepare for the next onslaught of Leomania. Titanic star Leonardo DiCaprio will be back on the big screen February 11, 2000, in his tropical thriller The Beach, 20th Century Fox confirmed Monday.
Waves of controversy pound The Beach (3rd November 1999) Environmentalists and movie makers are once again fighting over Phi Phi island where 20th Century Fox filmed The Beach. Friends of Maya, a pressure group that opposed filming earlier this year, said yesterday storms and winds have eroded the beach and dunes.
Problems in paradise? (3rd November 1999) Those Who Should Know say that director Danny Boyle and Fox are tangling over the much-anticipated upcoming Leonardo DiCaprio starrer "The Beach." The film, about young backpackers in Thailand, has two endings that the parties are fighting over.
Brits on The Beach (08/11/1999) The Beach in its novel form was originally about a British backpacker's travels, until that is Leonardo di Caprio was considered a must for the leading role. Suddenly his character Richard became American and naturally not everyone was pleased about this. But you can't keep the British down. UK band Dario G feature strongly on the film's soundtrack with three songs from their album "Sunmachine"
Storms Complete the destruction of Maya Beach (14th November 1999) They came, they saw, they filmed - and completely ruined a stunningly beautiful beach. Now, local residents believe, the government and the Hollywood film company which filmed "The Beach" at Maya Bay on Phi Phi islands, have to take responsibility for the destruction.
Activists on Phi Phi to lobby envoys (14th November 1999) Environmentalist groups, blaming the shooting of 20th Century Fox's film ''The Beach'' for erosion of the pristine beachfront at Maya Bay on Phi Phi Islands, will today bring the issue to the attention of foreign diplomats arriving on an observation tour here.
Storms Complete the destruction of Maya Beach (The Nation, 14th November 1999) They came, they saw, they filmed - and completely ruined a stunningly beautiful beach. Now, local residents believe, the government and the Hollywood film company which filmed "The Beach" at Maya Bay on Phi Phi islands, have to take responsibility for the destruction.
Diplomats stay off Maya Bay The Nation, (15th November 1999) THE threat of protests from environmentalists kept dozens of foreign diplomats away from Maya Bay on Phi Phi Ley in Krabi province yesterday.
Blur, Moby Tapped For Soundtrack To The Beach (Nov 16, 1999) The soundtrack to the upcoming film The Beach from writer/producer team John Hodge and Danny Boyle, based on the critically acclaimed novel by Alex Garland about 20-somethings on a secret beach near Thailand, is attracting its own all-star lineup of musicians.
Protesting greens keep diplomats off Leonardo's Beach (November 17, 1999) Police called off plans by more than 40 diplomats to visit Leonardo's Beach - named after heart-throb Leonardo DiCaprio - during a fact-finding tour of the south of Thailand.
Thai Trial Versus Movie Co. Resumes (November 19) Filmmakers destroyed a pristine beach in making Leonardo DiCaprio's latest movie, Thai officials testified Friday, saying the sands of Maya Bay washed away during the monsoon season because of changes made to shoot ``The Beach.''
DiCaprio film trial begins BBC, (19th November 1999) The trial has begun in Thailand of the makers of the Leonardo DiCaprio film, The Beach, on charges of damaging a national park.
Thai environmentalists storm 'Beach' (Nov. 19-21, 1999) Tour boat operators might have renamed Maya Bay on the southern Thai island of Phi Phi Leh as "Leonardo's Beach," but photographs from the area show an unsightly scene with bamboo fence poles sticking out of once shrub-covered sand dunes. Local environmentalists say the latest holiday snapshots from the island where Leonardo DiCaprio filmed "The Beach" do not make a pretty sight.
Photos of Maya Beach prove environmental harm, lawyers say (20th November 1999) LAWYERS representing the plaintiffs in ''The Beach'' law suit yesterday submitted to the court photographs of Maya Beach taken after the monsoon season as evidence supporting their accusations that filmakers destroyed the once-pristine beach.
Cyberspace Campaigns to Slam "The Beach" Protest The Nation editorial (24th November 1999) ''The Beach'' controversy has not only been raging within Thailand but also in cyberspace through various web sites with international links and contributors -- an aspect that has largely remained unnoticed in this country.
One Planet, BBC World Service, Wednesday 24th November. The lure of a secluded sun-kissed sandy beach somewhere near the equator has long been irresistible to Western travelers. But for the giant film company 20th Century Fox, the beach at Maya Bay on the island of Phi Phi Le in Southern Thailand has turned into a nightmare.
Thais split over 'Beach' landing, Hollywood Reporter (Wednesday, Nov. 24, 1999) In an ironic twist, Leonardo DiCaprio's new movie "The Beach" will be used by travel agents to boost tourism to Thailand's idyllic islands despite claims in court that the crew on the Fox production has already ruined the country's most beautiful cove. Thai tourism chiefs in Britain are teaming with Fox to promote the movie and the country where it was shot.
Agent pleads for justice for 'The Beach' (26th November 1999) The Thai company acting as the local representative for Hollywood's 20th Century Fox Company in filming The Beach asked for justice for the controversial movie. Santa Pestonji, owner of Santa International Film Production Co, told The Nation that he was saddened by the ''unreasonable protests'' of the film's opponents.
Web of Intrigue Surrounds 'The Beach' on the Internet, BBC (26th November 1999) The producers of Leonardo DiCaprio's 'The Beach' are behind an Internet smear campaign against groups accusing them of environmental damage, according to a Thai newspaper.
We'll Fight Them On The Beach, Empire online (26/11/1999) As the trial in Thailand opens with the film's producers accused of environmental damage to Maya Bay - one of their Thai locations - something of a war has begun between the old and new media in Thailand.

October 1999

Leo Gets A Date (28/10/1999) All over the world, millions of Leonardo di Caprio fans can give a sigh of relief - their waiting days are over. After much faffing, Fox have finally announced a concrete release date for di Caprio's next movie, The Beach.
DiCaprio film-makers face storm over paradise lost (Friday October 29, 1999) It was the Hollywood dream: Leonardo DiCaprio, the most beautiful boy in the world, strutting his stuff on the most idyllic beach in the Orient and starring in a dark utopian romance drawn from an internationally bestselling novel. But the real story behind the filming of The Beach, Alex Garland's book about backpackers seeking a late 20th century Utopia, looks like concluding in ecological disaster and court cases.
Top 10 anticipated films for 2000
Smack My Beach Up - PRODIGY's Liam Howlett has once again collaborated with Massive Attack's 3D, this time on the soundtrack to the forthcoming Leonardo DiCaprio movie based on Alex Garland's bestselling novel The Beach.

September 1999

Cast Away: Marooned on the set of The Beach (Black Book, Fall '99). It was March '99. A warm Phuket evening. The cameras were set, the crew was in focus, the extras grinned from adrenaline as a four-wheel drive approached. About 400 people stood in every single space surrounding the set, some shouting for autographs, some just for the fun of it, and others, as though their life depended on it.
Thai court reopens DiCaprio movie case (8th September). A Thai court has reopened the case against movie producers alleged to have ruined an island paradise while shooting Leonardo DiCaprio's new film.
Fox's Trouble in Paradise (16th September). Twentieth Century Fox continues to be in hot water over its forthcoming Leonardo DiCaprio film, "The Beach."

August 1999

Leo's chances for Oscar beached (11 August 1999) Leonardo DiCaprio, who notably missed out on an Academy Award nomination for Titanic, won't be in the Oscar hunt again this year.
Fox Beaches Leo (August 11 1999) It should be no surprise the problem-plagued Leonardo DiCaprio vehicle, The Beach, has encountered yet another snafu. The film's studio has decided to set the release date for the Lord of the Flies-esqe film about paradise lost to late January or early February of 2000.
Court resumes 'The Beach' hearing (8/21/99) THE Civil Court yesterday resumed its hearing on alleged environmental damage to Phi Phi Island by the shooting of the Hollywood film The Beach.

June 1999

Son of a Beach (June 1999) Who's that hunk? The usually skinny Leonardo Dicaprio has been reborn with a newly buffed physique, glowing tan and martial arts skill, thanks to his latest project, The Beach.
New Order (June 4th 1999) New Order, who are knee-deep in promotions for their respective outside commitments, will finally get together and begin writing their first songs together since 1993's Republic. According to a source close to the band, first on the plate will be a song for the soundtrack to The Beach
Entertainment Weekly On-line (June 10th 1999) '80s techno band New Order will supply some new songs for Leonardo DiCaprio's next movie, "The Beach."

May 1999

Leo and Learning - A Computer Age Tale in Thailand (Silk Road May/99) - The eyes of the whole world seemed to focus upon Phuket earlier this year, when international heart-throb Leonardo DiCaprio landed here to film "The Beach," his first new movie since soaring to mega-stardom with "Titanic".
People in the News (1/May/99) - Photographers who covered Leonardo DiCaprio's tumultuous trip through Taipei Airport accused the "Titanic' star on Saturday of having insulted them.
A Spy on the Beach (salon.com 4/May/99) - I'm sitting at a bar on Kata Beach pretending to mind my own business, when -- ten seats down the bar from me -- Leonardo DiCaprio suddenly flies into a rage. Leaping up from his chair, he shoves a frizzy-haired blond guy out into the rain. "Get it right, asshole!" he yells after him menacingly.
Aussie Storms Leo's Beach (10/May/99) - On New Year's Eve, Australian Sheridan Jones was finishing up her work as a publicist at a London fashion company and pondering what 1999 might hold. Her reverie was interrupted by a phone call from Director Danny Boyle, who was in Thailand with Leonardo DiCaprio filming The Beach. "He said to me, "This is probably the strangest phone call you'll ever get."
Happy Trailers to You (13/May/99) - Websites jumped right over the Hollywood studio system and into the individualized star vehicles that the film business has become in record time.
Beach-y Keen (13/May/99) - A 30-second teaser for Leonardo DiCaprio's The Beach had its world premiere yesterday on Leo's personal Web site (www.leonardodicaprio.com).
"The Beach" - Paradise Lost or Paradise Gained? (Ecotourism May 14th 1999) Recently, filming for Leonardo DiCaprio's latest " The Beach" based on a novel of the same name by Alex Garland, wrapped in Thailand. Filming caused quite an upset with Thai and international environmentalists, claiming that 20th Century Fox was causing irreparable environmental damage to the Thai National Park, Phi Phi Leh.
A trip to the Beach (May/99) - The Official Leonardo Dicaprio website was the first to preveiw the trailer for the Danny Boyle directed film The Beach.
Life's a Beach For Boyle & Co (May/99) - There are many reasons why The Beach is one of the years most highly anticipated movies.

April 1999

Wild Oriental Weekend for Leo (2 April 1999) Hearts fluttered and pulses pounded at The Oriental Hotel in Bangkok when Leonardo DiCaprio turned up unexpectedly to spend a weekend in the capital city.
Boycotting Leo's "Beach" (10 April 1999) Who doesn't want to see a Leonardo DiCaprio movie? The "tens of thousands" of people who have added their names to an Internet-circulated petition calling for a boycott of Leo's upcoming drama, The Beach.
Beach Debate Escalates (15 April 1999)Debate is clearly raging over the environmental plights of upcoming Twentieth Century Fox film, The Beach starring troubled actor Leonardo DiCaprio.
Thai-Panic (The Sun 20 April 1999) Movie Idol Leonardo DiCaprio had to swim for his life when a boat he was using for filming began sinking in shark infested waters off Thailand. He leapt into the Indian Ocean as the monsoon whipped up 15 ft waves and flooded the boat.
An Unholy Row for Leo (21 April 1999) Leonardo DiCaprio had better say his prayers before he heads out to sea again. Newspapers in Thailand are blaming a recent boating accident on his failure to pay proper respect to local spirits.
In defense of 'The Beach' (Friday, April 23, 1999 ) Thailand has been a favored location for movie shoots for many years and southern Thailand remains an appealing mecca for filmmakers. The combination of white sandy beaches, favorable climate and relative ease of access make Thailand a desirable place to shoot motion pictures.
Leo's Rumble in the Jungle (South China Morning Post April 24 1999) "I'm afraid you can't do any interviews. You can't talk to anyone. Anyway, everything has been covered. I wonder why you would want to write anything anyway," says Sarah Clark, the public relations head of Beach Productions.
DiCaprio's Handlers Get Touchy (Mr Showbiz 27/April/1999) Leonardo DiCaprio and his camp aren't quite out of the woods yet. Although Leo completed shooting The Beach in Thailand last week, his bodyguards managed to stir up some controversy in a neighboring country.
Misinformation regarding paparazzi incident at Taipei Airport (29/April/1999) Leonardo DiCaprio's office released the following fact sheet today to correct the wildly inaccurate stories concerning the incident at Taipei Airport on April 26

March 1999

In The Swim Again (Time Magazine March 1, 1999. writer Jeffrey Ressner) Leonardo DiCaprio is fully dressed, shivering and gurgling in a large pool of icy-cold water and...wait a second, isn't this where we left off? Not quite. This time the 24-year-old Titanic star--the world's most famous young leading man--is submerged beneath a gushing waterfall in Thailand's Khao Yai National Park, an immense forest reserve crawling with tigers, leopards, elephants and pythons.
Beach Boy (The Guardian (UK) Saturday March 6, 1999. Writer: Emily Barr) Alex Garland's The Beach is about the destruction of paradise, and that's exactly what Hollywood is accused of doing now that it is making a film of the book. Emily Barr, on the set with Leonardo DiCaprio, takes issue with the protestors.
Battle of The Beach: (Daily Telegraph 13th March 1999 Writer: David Gritten) Ever since the unprecedented box-office success of 'Titanic', the world has been watching Leonardo DiCaprio. When he accepted the lead role in Danny Boyle's film, 'The Beach', he had no idea that he was getting into a political controversy that would threaten both his reputation and his peace of mind. David Gritten went on set in Thailand to hear DiCaprio's side of the story.

February 1999

Tourists polled on 'new-look' Maya (1 Feb 1999) The management of Haad Nooparattharathara-Phi Phi Island National Park on Sunday began to gather the opinions of Koh Phi Phi residents and tourists on whether the coconut trees replanted by film crews should be removed.
Fox ends filming at Thai reserve (2 Feb 1999) Hollywood studio Twentieth Century Fox is ''cleaning up'' its film set at a Thai beach reserve, a production representative said Monday as US authorities promised to examine bribery allegations against the company.
Shooting of Foreign Film Creates Wave on Thai Beach (The Asian Wall Street Journal 2/Feb/99) PHI PHI, Thailand -- In a country bristling with coconut trees, British producer Andrew McDonald and director Danny Boyle couldn't have known what a commotion they would cause by planting a few dozen more.
Plodprasop, protesters in bitter row (2 Feb 1999) The compound of the Forestry Department was the scene of a public slanging match yesterday when opponents of The Beach tried to submit a letter demanding the resignation of forestry chief Plodprasop Suraswadi, who accused them of being uncivilised and of treating him "like an
animal".
Plodprasob gets into brawl with activists (2 Feb 1999) The director-general of the Royal Forestry Department (RFD), Plodprasop Suraswadi, on Monday became embroiled in a brawl with environmentalists who have demanded his ouster, alleging abuse of power in granting permission for changes to the landscape in a major
national park.
Fox starts rehabilitation of Thai beach (3 Feb 1999) The producers of ''Titanic'' star Leonardo DiCaprio's latest movie said Wednesday they had begun work to return a Thai beach reserve to its natural state in the hope of ending weeks of controversy.
Film-makers begin Maya restoration (4 Feb 1999) Following two weeks of filming on Phi Phi National Park, the producers of ''The Beach'' have begun the process of restoring the area to its original state as prescribed in the contract signed with the Royal Forestry Department (RFD).
Adventure Bound: (The Nation 4 Feb 1999) The dream of an unspoilt paradise has sent millions of backpackers circling the globe, and Hollywood film-makers to the beaches of Southern Thailand, but the elusive 'perfect beach' is becoming every harder to find.
Movie star defends use of Maya site (6 Feb 1999) Screen idol Leonardo DiCaprio yesterday issued a strong defence against the use of a Thai paradise island in his new movie, ruling out environmentalists' claims the project had destroyed an idyllic beach.
Move to take action against film crew (7 Feb 1999) The Confederation for the Protection of Khao Yai will today seek legal action against the production team of The Beach for its alleged illegal shooting of the film in the national park during February 8-10.
Storming "The Beach" (Salon Magazine 9 Feb 1999) a backpacker in search of adventure in Thailand puts the moves on leonardo DiCaprio.
Police given video of 'damage' done by Fox (12 Feb 1999) A group of environmentalists has submitted to police a video tape of activities by 20th Century Fox which have allegedly damaged an area around a waterfall inside Khao Yai national park during the filming of ''The Beach''.
The Water's Hot This Time: (LA Times 13 Feb 99) Leonardo DiCaprio finds he's a villain in a strange land in his first lead role since 'Titanic.'
'Beach' washes away law (15 Feb 1999) The landscape changes to accommodate the filming of 'The Beach' violate the national-park law.
Life's not only 'The Beach' (16 Feb 1999) "Where have all the environmentalists gone?"
Postcards from the Beach: (Asiaweek Magazine, Ron Gluckman, 19th Feb 99) The backpacker film The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, has launched a wave of controversy and hype. But some say it will be Thailand's ultimate tourism ad.
Lonely Leo: (Now Magazine (UK), 25 February 1999 Mike Daniels and Garth Pearce) Japanese stalkers, angry protestors, poison jellyfish and long, lonely nights. The Titanic star is having a tough time in Thailand making the film of the cult novel The Beach.

January 1999

Welcome to Thailand Leo (Nation Junior Jan 1998) After drowning in the cold Atlantic waters in Titanic, actor Leonardo DiCaprio is coming to Thailand!
Activists Cry "Cut!" At Film Set (Phuket Gazette 1-14 Jan 1998) The Gazette Investigation Team went to Phi Phi to meet the conservationists who say they won't allow alterations at Maya Bay to get buried in the sand.
Boat drivers to get compensation (2 Jan 1999) The Beach film crew has pledged to compensate the long-tail boat drivers who are expected to lose income as Maya Bay is to be sealed off for the shooting of the movie.
Hollywood studio in the dock over Thai film (5 Jan 1999) The Lawyers Association of Thailand said Tuesday it would sue 20th Century Fox and Thai officials to try to halt filming of a new Leonardo DiCaprio movie opponents say will destroy a idyllic Thai beach.
What brought about suing of RFD, Fox? (5 Jan 1999) How did the Krabi administrative organisations decide to sue the Royal Forestry Department and 20th Century Fox? The Nation provides a background report.
Courtroom counterblasts loom over Maya Beach filming (6 Jan 1999) The Royal Forestry Department (RFD) chief Tuesday threatened lawsuits in turn against local officials in Krabi who have vowed to sue him for allegedly abusing his authority in approving the filming of ''The Beach''.
'Beach' protest will draw a line in the sand (8 Jan 1999) Doubts remain over the legality of permission given to 20th Century Fox by the Royal Forestry Department director-general to alter the landscape of Maya Beach -- part of the Haad Nopparatthara-Phi Phi Island National Park -- for the filming of 'The Beach'.
It's lights,cameras -- and protests (10 Jan 1999) A Conservation group will display protest banners as filming begins today on Phuket's Phi Phi Island for ''The Beach'', activists said yesterday.
Court set to rule on 'The Beach' (12 Jan 1999) The Civil Court is expected to rule this morning on whether to ban the controversial production of ''The Beach'' after it accepted a lawsuit for environmental damage from two elected Krabi assemblies.
Court move to halt The Beach (12 Jan 99) The battle of The Beach heated up yesterday as opponents sought an emergency court order to stop filming, while the forestry chief has threatened to terminate a birds' nest concession held by a leading opponent.
Leo's minders block fans (12 January) Fans of Leonardo DiCaprio cried foul yesterday after being kept from the actor who is starring in The Beach.
Court gives filming go-ahead (13 Jan 1999) The Civil Court yesterday turned down a request to halt filming of The Beach saying it would be unfair to the Forestry Department chief if the ruling was made without his explanation.
Actor sees new role in promoting tourism (13 Jan 1999) Titanic superstar Leonardo DiCaprio wants to meet Prime Minister Chuan Leekpai to discuss his plan to help promote tourism in Thailand, says Deputy Education Minister Arkom Engchuan.
Opponents of 'The Beach' keep fighting (13 Jan 1999) Opponents of the landscape changes made to Phi Phi Island's Maya beach for the filming of ''The Beach'' will resubmit their request to the Civil Court today for an immediate ban on the production after it was rejected on Tuesday.
Chuan steps into row over 'The Beach' (13 Jan 1999) Prime Minister Chuan Leekpai on Tuesday stepped into the environmental row over Leonardo DiCaprio's new film ''The Beach'', saying the project will do more good than harm.
Thai court rejects second bid to stop DiCaprio movie (14 Jan 1999) The Civil Court yesterday rejected a second petition by opponents of Leonardo DiCaprio's new movie ''The Beach'', seeking a ban on its filming on Phi Phi Island.
The Beach producer: ''We failed to communicate ...'' (14 Jan 1999) The controversial shooting of the Twentieth Century Fox movie, The Beach, is scheduled to begin in the southern scenic Maya Bay tomorrow after the Civil Court on Tuesday turned down an urgent request to pre-empt the filming.
Opponents urged not to file lawsuit (15 Jan 1999) An environment expert has advised opponents of 20th Century Fox's landscaping of Maya Bay on Phi Phi Lei Island for the filming of The Beach against filing the case with the Criminal Court, as the chance of winning is slimmer than in the Civil Court.
Hands off, masseuse tells media (15 Jan 1999) Media obsession with Leonardo DiCaprio has started to affect the lives of Thais who come into contact with him, including a masseuse at the hotel where he is staying.
Court accepts petition against movie (16 Jan 1999) The Civil Court yesterday accepted a petition filed by Krabi residents opposing landscaping of Maya Bay to film The Beach, after they softened their demand from an immediate filming halt to a deposit of bond for damage.
Shooting of movie starts as tours forced to reroute (16 Jan 1999) Shooting began on the movie "The Beach" yesterday at Maya Beach, Phi Phi Lae after a futile attempt by opponents to block its production on the island.
Protesters gather at hotel (17 Jan 1999) Environmentalists staged a rally yesterday on board two vessels moored in front of the hotel where Leonardo DiCaprio is staying, to voice their opposition to the shooting of the movie "The Beach".
DiCaprio defends 'The Beach' (19 Jan 1999) Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio issued a statement on Monday defending the changes made at the Phi Phi Island national park for the filming of ''The Beach''.
Film crew are not the main focus (21 Jan 99) What do The Beach and the Community Forest Bill controversies have in common? The same enemy - the all-powerful forestry department. And the same goal - to give local people a say in how to manage their natural environment as is their constitutional right.
Legal challenge to 'The Beach' hits brick wall (Jan 1999) The court hearing on the controversial landscape changes made in Phi Phi Island national park is likely to take place after the filming of 'The Beach' is over. Pennapa Hongthong looks at the legal saga.
No oil slick, says film production team (25 Jan 1999) The production team of The Beach has denied having discharged oil into the sea, saying what was believed to be an oil slick in Loh Sama Bay was non-toxic gas emitted by boats used for filming.
Life is a Beach for Leo in Thailand (This is London, 27 Jan 1999) It is evening on the beach and in the fading gold I'm keeping a watch over the Andaman Sea. A tropical storm clears from the western sky leaving the Jelly Tot islands a sharp green against the blue. I've been here a while, but it's hard to get impatient. I'm living, after all, the dreams of a million teenage girls: I'm waiting for Leonardo DiCaprio to appear out of the sunset.
20th Century Fox has new Thai enemy (28 Jan 1999) Opponents of The Beach, the 20th Century Fox movie being shot in Maya Bay on Phi Phi Lei island, have a new ally.
Fox in for more trouble (29 Jan 1999) Should the volume of water at Khao Yai National Park's Heaw Suwat Waterfall get less, 20th Century Fox would face another round of opposition.
RFD gives way again to Hollywood (29 Jan 1999) With the legal efforts to block the filming of ''The Beach'' not bearing fruit and the latest refusal by the Thai court to go down and investigate damage to Phi Phi Island national park, the conservationists are now taking the case right to 20th Century Fox's doorstep in the United States.
Activists want film studio investigated (31 Jan 1999) Civic groups want the American government to investigate 20th Century Fox, accusing the studio of bribing the Thai government to allow it to change the landscape at Khao Yai National Park in Phuket for filming The Beach.

December 1998

Maya's recovery begins to look uncertain (2 Dec 1998) Given the amount of changes to Phi Phi Island's Maya Beach for the shooting of ''The Beach'', recovery is doubtful, report The Nation's Kamol Sukin and Pennapa Hongthong from Krabi.
Krabi residents rally to protect Maya beach (3 Dec 1998) About 30 Krabi conservationists, tourism operators and villagers on Phi Phi Don Island began camping on Maya beach last night to protect the site which, they feel, will be damaged by the shooting of the Hollywood film ''The Beach''.
Green invaders try to beach DiCaprio film (4 Dec 1998) Protesters infuriated by a Hollywood adaptation of the best-selling British novel The Beach have occupied an idyllic bay in Thailand which they say will be ruined by the production.
Fox allowed to resume shooting movie (5 Dec 1998) Twentieth Century Fox has received permission to resume shooting The Beach at Maya Beach on Phi Phi Island following a decision by the Forestry Department-appointed committee yesterday.
Maya beach blockade to continue despite verdict (5 Dec 1998) Environmentalists camping on Maya Beach insist they will continue to blockade the beach even though a panel appointed to assess the impact on filming on the island's ecosystem has endorsed the Hollywood project.
We threaten no one, say Phi Phi conservationists (9 Dec 1998)
Phi Phi protesters' morale boosted (11 Dec 1998) The conservationists who have been camping out on Maya beach on Phi Phi Island have had their morale boosted thanks to the support of friends, according to the Kanchanaburi Conservation Group who visited the beach on Wednesday.
Protesters still oppose beach excavation (11 Dec 98) Opponents have reaffirmed their stance against excavation and coconut tree planting by The Beach film crew and reiterated their demand that the Forestry Department stop abusing the National Park Act.
RFD's okay for filmshooting is 'unlawful' (13 Dec 1998) The Royal Forest Department's (RFD) approval for a Hollywood film company to film its movie on Maya Beach is unlawful, a law academic at Thammasat University has said.
Expert says movie permission illegal (14 Dec 1998) The Forestry Department's granting of permission to Twentieth Century Fox to film The Beach at Maya Beach on Phi Phi Island was unlawful, claimed a legal expert from Thammasat University.
Film studio accused of damaging reef (15 Dec 1998) The production team for ''The Beach'' is continuing with its work on the Maya Beach amid protests about the latest phase having destroyed a coral reef.
Beach sit-in ends after Maya protesters claim intimidation (18 Dec 1998) A fortnight-long sit-in to protect Phi Phi Island's Maya Beach from environmental damage ended yesterday in an overwhelming display of force from supporters of a Hollywood film project.
Anti-film group seeks legal action against chief (18 Dec 1998) Conservationists and local protest groups yesterday agreed to set up a group to take legal action against those responsible for the alleged "unlawful entry and destruction" of Maya Bay on Phi Phi Island for the filming of The Beach.
Film studio goes back on tree deal, Maya activists claim (19 Dec 1998) Villagers fear the 20th Century Fox production team will not keep its promise of using manpower, as opposed to machinery, in altering the look of Maya Beach for filming of ''The Beach''.
CCC asked to probe Maya Beach approval (22 Dec 1998) A group of environmentalists and NGOs on Monday submitted a letter demanding the Counter Corruption Commission (CCC) investigate the approval given by the Royal Forestry Department (RFD) director general to allow a Hollywood company to make changes to a national park for a film.
Krabi plans to sue Forestry chief (24 Dec 1998) Krab's local administration plans to take legal action against Royal Forestry Department (RFD) chief Plodprasop Suraswadi for approving the filming of the Hollywood movie ''The Beach'' in the southern province.

November 1998

Hollywood agent defends film (3 Nov 98) THE 20th Century Fox coordinator for Thailand has called on the public and the press not to be critical of or oppose the making of The Beach, which will be filmed on Krabi's Phi Phi Island.
The Beach is going to be a tragedy (3 Nov 98) The Agriculture Ministry and the government brushed aside a growing concern over environmental impacts on Phi Phi Island when they approved the multi-billion-baht filming proposal submitted by US-based 20th Century Fox which will involve widening of the beach and replanting of more than 100 coconut trees.
Filming of The Beach cleared - Protesters gather at producers' office (6 Nov 1998) Hollywood was given approval to film The Beach on Koh Phi Phi yesterday as protesters demonstrated outside the Silom offices of 20th Century Fox. Protesters wore masks of Leonardo DiCaprio, the star of Titanic, who is to star in The Beach, and flung imitation dollar notes into the air.
Clearing of Phi Phi film site begins (7 Nov 1998) Production crews of the Hollywood film, The Beach, have begun clearing Maya Beach on Phi Phi island to prepare the setting for the movie amid mixed reactions from local residents.
Phi Phi beach-clearing suspended (9 Nov 1998) Clearing of the beach on Phi Phi Island's Maya bay to prepare for a scene of the controversial film ''The Beach'' has been stopped temporarily only two days after it began.
Green groups rally over 'damaging' film (11 Nov 1998) Conservationists yesterday marched to Krabi provincial hall to complain about the filming of the movie "The Beach" on Phi Phi Island.
Leo told to lose 20lb for $20m (11 Nov 1998) Leonardo DiCaprio has been ordered to go on a crash diet and lose one and a half stone in seven weeks.
House panel to inspect Phi Phi (12 Nov 1998) The House committee on the environment will inspect Phi Phi Island on Monday to determine whether the shooting of ''The Beach'' would cause environmental damage, the spokesman for the committee said on Wednesday.
Green protest at film slammed (12 Nov 1998) Agriculture Minister Pongpol Adireksarn has dismissed claims made by Krabi environmental groups that filming of the movie The Beach will destroy Maya Bay on Phi Phi island.
Locals ease opposition to film (12 Nov 1998) Local people have agreed to allow filming of The Beach on Maya Bay, Phi Phi island, provided the film producer, 20th Century Fox, adheres to four conditions.
A Chat with The Beach producer (15 Nov 1998) Word came that Andrew MacDonald, the producer of 'The Beach', wanted to have a chat with me, as one of the people protesting his relandscaping of Maya Bay in Phi Phi Islands national park.
Environment hitch holds up film shooting (16 Nov 1998) The Provincial Administrative Organisation's environment committee yesterday resolved that the preparation for the shooting of the movie ''The Beach'' at Phi Phi Island should be suspended until after environmental safety has been verified.
A bridge too far for Beach (16 Nov 1998) A contractor is facing legal action for building a wooden footbridge without official permission in Maya bay of Phi Phi island where 20th Century Fox is filming "The Beach".
Rows over 'The Beach' (17 Nov 1998) The Harbour Department and the provincial administrative organisation are protesting at the preparation of 20th Century Fox's set for the filming of ''The Beach'' starring Leonardo DiCaprio, on the island resort of Phi Phi.
The Beach 'must halt site work' (18 Nov 1998) The Forestry Department yesterday halted pre-production work on The Beach saying a committee must first look at the pros and cons of filming on Phi Phi island before saying whether it should go ahead.
Halt work on The Beach, says environment panel (19 Nov 98) The Forestry Department should suspend preparations for The Beach on Koh Phi Phi until an environmental impact study is carried out, the House Environment panel said yesterday.
Swinton going to 'Beach' (20 Nov 1998) Tilda Swinton is set to make her first big splash in a studio film when she plays the second lead alongside Leonardo DiCaprio in ``The Beach.''
The finger points to thee (20 Nov 98) Agriculture Minister Pongpol Adireksarn has my sympathy. What's the point of being a minister if you can't do what you want with the resources under your watch?
Preparations for 'The Beach' on hold (21 Nov 1998) THE chairman of an ad hoc committee studying environmental impacts from the pre-production of the Hollywood film ''The Beach'' in Phi Phi Island's Maya Beach said yesterday its study would be completed in 15 days.
Hollywood film gets green light (21 Nov 1998) Provincial authorities have given the green light to the controversial filming of the Hollywood movie The Beach on Phi Phi Island.
British actresses to star in the sun with Leonardo DiCaprio (23 Nov 1998) Two British actresses have shouldered aside the competition to be chosen to make the leap from low-budget films to star in The Beach alongside the teen idol of Titanic, Leonardo DiCaprio.
Oceans Apart (25 Nov 1998) The main characters are the "incensed" protesters, "big bad" foreign film-makers and "naive" forestry officials - and they all have a different tale to tell.
Doing Things by the Book (25 Nov 1998) Andrew McDonald is a bit frustrated. The 32-year-old British producer, known for his work as part of the three-man team responsible for the celebrated film Trainspotting, has just been asked by a local reporter if he knows it is illegal to grow marijuana in Thailand.
Dangerous 'Beach' (30 Nov 1998) Is shooting the Leonardo DiCaprio starrer The Beach worth the trouble? Perhaps after reading this, you might think it isn't.

October 1998

Ledoyen, Canet eye 'Beach' trip (15th Oct 98) French actors Virginie Ledoyen and Guillaume Canet are in talks to star opposite Leonardo DiCaprio in Danny Boyle's The Beach.
Can Leo Go To Phi Phi? (15th Oct 98) Will plans to turn a Southern island paradise into DiCaprio Beach get off the ground? Pusadee Rithinondh looks into why the cameras are not yet rolling.
Filming on Phi Phi an act of Sacrilege (17 Oct 98) IMAGINE filming an ambitious Hollywood blockbuster on Phi Phi Island, one of the most beautiful islands in the Pacific. All the elaborate and crushing equipment and ravaging crew laying waste most of what they touch. This is what is about to descend on Phi Phi if 20th Century Fox gets the final go ahead from the Thai government to shoot The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio.
Phi Phi islands can do without Hollywood promo (19 Oct 98)
The Beach gets RFD nod (27 Oct 98) THE producers of the controversial film ''The Beach'' have been given the go-ahead by the Royal Forestry Department (RFD) to shoot in Krabi's Phi Phi Island, RFD director-general Plodprasop Suraswadi said Monday.
Hollywood and its fantasy island (29 Oct 98) Glorious Phi Phi, gush travel brochures in their praise of the lush vegetation, pristine sands and sparkling waters of one of the region’s many pearls of the orient.
Fox to take responsibility for damage to 'The Beach' (30 Oct 98) Any damage resulting from shooting "The Beach" on Koh Phi Phi will be fully covered by 20th Century Fox as stated in the contract, a company representative said yesterday.
Beauty and 'The Beach' (30 Oct 98) Thailand does not need Holloywood to tell the world that it is beautiful. You can't help but wonder: is this a case of Hollywood celebrating Thailand, or Thailand celebrating Hollywood?

July 1998

Beach Blanket Leo (10th Jul 98) Leonardo DiCaprio's next starring role will be in the feature film The Beach, it was announced today by his manager, Rick Yorn of Industry Entertainment.

BBC Television and Radio reports:

DiCaprio goes to the top 13 January 1999
Cameras roll on stormy Beach 15 January (video clip)
DiCaprio tries to calm Beach storm 18 January 1999
Beach campaigners go to US law 28 January 1999
Fox faces investigation over Beach row 1 February 1999
Trouble in Paradise 4 January 1999
Film-makers Start Restoring Beach 4 February 1999
DiCaprio Sinking Feeling 20 April 1999 (audio clip)

Access Hollywood reports:

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