Guest Author - Caroline Baker
There has been a lot of buzz recently for a new movie that is being released this last weekend. Ong-bak: The Thai Warrior.
Set in Bankok, a Muay Thai student named Ting, played by Tony Jaa, must recover the stolen head of the Ong Bak. The Ong Bak is a statue of Buddha kept in the Nong Pra-du temple.
Filled with action-packed scenes, this movie takes you through the main streets of Bankok. Unlike the recent trend of Martial Arts movies though, this movie uses no wires, no computer graphics, and no stunt doubles. Ever scene is performed by Tony Jaa himself, a heralding back to some of Jackie Chan's earlier movies.
This movie is not for the weak of heart. If you can't stand the sound of bone cracking, it's best not go see this movie. But if you are looking for some real action, I highly recommend this movie.
Originally released in Thailand in 2003, it is reported to be the highest grossing Thai film in that year. The director, Prachya Pinkaew is a Thai native and still directing films in Thailand.
Tony Jaa (as known as Panom Yeerum) is no stranger to the big screen. His life-long pursuit has taken him to be the stunt double in the popular movie, Mortal Kombat: Annihilation. He is also been casted to star in another movie by Pinkaew called Tom yum goong, scheduled for released some time this year.
