In the /Film conversation on the best martial arts movies, Prachya Pinkaew's 2003 gem "Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior" stands tall. Featuring the full-contact fight choreography of the late Panna Rittikrai (head of the parkour-happy Muay Thai Stunt team), the actioner features a parade of incredible acrobatic, multidisciplinary stunts, with a spotlight on its star, Tony Jaa. Jaa leaps through a barbed-wire hoop without a scratch, knocks a giant out with one kick, absorbs blows with every item of furniture available, and conducts himself with an energy level unseen outside of the "Dragon Ball" universe. Many who watch his films, from the...
The post Tony Jaa Didn't Make It Out of Ong Bak's Flaming Fight Scene Unscathed appeared first on /Film.
The post Tony Jaa Didn't Make It Out of Ong Bak's Flaming Fight Scene Unscathed appeared first on /Film.
- 5/25/2022
- by Anya Stanley
- Slash Film
Almost all martial arts movies are dominated by males, therefore it’s refreshing to see a female kicking ass for a change. Enter the Thai girl, Yanin Vismitananda in her debut, “Chocolate”. This is a movie made purely for fans of action movies and a celebration of the beauty of the fight form.
The story of “Chocolate” takes place in Thailand, in which a local gangster, No. 8, finds out that his girlfriend Zin is in love with Masashi, a Yakuza boss. In order to stop them from seeing each other again, he cuts off his own toe as a symbolic gesture. To prevent further bloodshed, Masashi has no choice but to go back to Japan. In the meantime, Zin discovers that she’s pregnant and relocates herself so she can have the baby away from No.8.
While on the run, Zin gives birth to a daughter, Zen.
The story of “Chocolate” takes place in Thailand, in which a local gangster, No. 8, finds out that his girlfriend Zin is in love with Masashi, a Yakuza boss. In order to stop them from seeing each other again, he cuts off his own toe as a symbolic gesture. To prevent further bloodshed, Masashi has no choice but to go back to Japan. In the meantime, Zin discovers that she’s pregnant and relocates herself so she can have the baby away from No.8.
While on the run, Zin gives birth to a daughter, Zen.
- 4/22/2020
- by David Chew
- AsianMoviePulse
Not that previous years didn’t have their fair share of action, but with all due respect to Erik Matti or Tsui Hark or Wu Jing, “Triple Threat” is the film so impatiently expected that the question “Is “Triple Threat” a triple treat?” is more palpable than Tony Jaa`s knee in solar plexus. So – come up to the lab and see what`s on the slab. I see you shiver with antici…
…pation.
Triple Threat will be released in more than 150 screens on Tuesday, March 19 and on DVD/VOD, March 22, courtesy of WellGo USA
‘
I hope you are in expectation of a narrative that offers nothing too elaborate but is coherent enough to carry the drive, the “archetypal” characters, and own world’s laws of logic and physics. A narrative that gives you good guys running on personal motives and bad guys driven by assignments and money.
…pation.
Triple Threat will be released in more than 150 screens on Tuesday, March 19 and on DVD/VOD, March 22, courtesy of WellGo USA
‘
I hope you are in expectation of a narrative that offers nothing too elaborate but is coherent enough to carry the drive, the “archetypal” characters, and own world’s laws of logic and physics. A narrative that gives you good guys running on personal motives and bad guys driven by assignments and money.
- 3/19/2019
- by Anomalilly
- AsianMoviePulse
In order to be a great martial art film, a movie just has to follow one rule: keep audiences entertained. Those films produced in Thailand manage to do just that, earning the praise of being home to some of the best martial arts movies. The films may lack a serious story-line, but the incredible choreography more than makes up for it all.
Narrowing down the movies to find the best is no easy task, but we came up with what we feel are the top five best Thai martial arts films. Each movie in our list features the enchanting choreography from the late famed director and martial artist Panna Rittikrai. His films used no CGI to show off each actor’s athletic prowess.
Born to Fight (2004)
This remake of the 1986 film bears little resemblance to it beyond a title. Nevertheless, it is just as action-packed and entertaining. It follows Deaw,...
Narrowing down the movies to find the best is no easy task, but we came up with what we feel are the top five best Thai martial arts films. Each movie in our list features the enchanting choreography from the late famed director and martial artist Panna Rittikrai. His films used no CGI to show off each actor’s athletic prowess.
Born to Fight (2004)
This remake of the 1986 film bears little resemblance to it beyond a title. Nevertheless, it is just as action-packed and entertaining. It follows Deaw,...
- 8/12/2017
- by Jason Maine
- AsianMoviePulse
Stars: Sasisa Jimdamanee, Johnny Nguyen, Nantawooti Boonrapsap, Arunya Pawilai, Nawarat Techarathanaprasert, Paytaai Wongkamlao | Written byNonont Kontaweesook, Napalee | Directed by Krissanapong Rachata
[Editor’s Note: Welcome to the first installment of Cine-Sunday, a new weekly feature here on Nerdly where we revisit the newly-revived Cine-Asia’s back catalogue and review the highlights. Going forward each new review will go live on Sunday’s at noon (UK time). And you can see all the Cine-Asia titles we’ve reviewed, so far, right here]
Despite their small size and inexperience, having grown up under the roof of a Muay Thai school two young brothers and their friends have become highly skilled, if undisciplined, martial artists. Sadly, the youngest of the gang suffers from an acute heart condition, which following a minor scuffle with some local bullies lands him in hospital and desperately in need of a life-saving transplant. Fortunately, a viable heart soon becomes available at another local hospital, but before it can be transferred the building is overtaken by rebel soldiers-turned-terrorists prepared to kill if their politically-driven demands are not met by the authorities.
With only four hours in which the surgery can be performed successfully, the young friends take it upon themselves to infiltrate the hospital and retrieve the donated organ.
[Editor’s Note: Welcome to the first installment of Cine-Sunday, a new weekly feature here on Nerdly where we revisit the newly-revived Cine-Asia’s back catalogue and review the highlights. Going forward each new review will go live on Sunday’s at noon (UK time). And you can see all the Cine-Asia titles we’ve reviewed, so far, right here]
Despite their small size and inexperience, having grown up under the roof of a Muay Thai school two young brothers and their friends have become highly skilled, if undisciplined, martial artists. Sadly, the youngest of the gang suffers from an acute heart condition, which following a minor scuffle with some local bullies lands him in hospital and desperately in need of a life-saving transplant. Fortunately, a viable heart soon becomes available at another local hospital, but before it can be transferred the building is overtaken by rebel soldiers-turned-terrorists prepared to kill if their politically-driven demands are not met by the authorities.
With only four hours in which the surgery can be performed successfully, the young friends take it upon themselves to infiltrate the hospital and retrieve the donated organ.
- 1/15/2017
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
When it comes to making features like this one, i love the idea of coming up with my own personal “100 Great Kung Fu Movies” of all time. It is tough choosing just 100 because you know there are many more great Kung Fu movies that are not on the list.
I have decided that to make the list, a movie must have a few hand to hand moments during fight scenes in the movies chosen. If for example its mainly sword play with one fight scene hand to hand it won’t make the list. Its old school “style” Kung Fu movies, not modern day settings.
I understand everyone will have their own personal favorites and some may not agree with my list and that’s fine because it’s nice to have different opinions on this genre which keeps it fresh and alive when having good debates.
Anyway, thank you...
I have decided that to make the list, a movie must have a few hand to hand moments during fight scenes in the movies chosen. If for example its mainly sword play with one fight scene hand to hand it won’t make the list. Its old school “style” Kung Fu movies, not modern day settings.
I understand everyone will have their own personal favorites and some may not agree with my list and that’s fine because it’s nice to have different opinions on this genre which keeps it fresh and alive when having good debates.
Anyway, thank you...
- 6/25/2015
- by kingofkungfu
- AsianMoviePulse
What we lack more and more these days are epic fight scenes in the final part of kung Fu/Martial Art movies. We have seen less and less one on one fight scenes in the final battle over the past 15-20 years, which is a shame but we have seen recently a few flicks bringing that winning formula back.
I want to name a few of my favorite end fight scenes and please feel free to comment below, your favorite fight scenes and maybe they will be added to the future features. I only add fight scenes which i can find the clips for on youtube, so some classics might not be added to the lists.
1.Drunken Master 2 (1994)
Cast:Jackie Chan, Lau Kar Leung, Ti Lung, Anita Mui, Ken Lo, Andy Lau, Mark Houghton
Fight Choreographer: Lau Kar Leung, Jackie Chan
2.Ong Bak 2 (2008)
Cast:Tony Jaa, Nirut Sirichanya, Sorapong Chatree,...
I want to name a few of my favorite end fight scenes and please feel free to comment below, your favorite fight scenes and maybe they will be added to the future features. I only add fight scenes which i can find the clips for on youtube, so some classics might not be added to the lists.
1.Drunken Master 2 (1994)
Cast:Jackie Chan, Lau Kar Leung, Ti Lung, Anita Mui, Ken Lo, Andy Lau, Mark Houghton
Fight Choreographer: Lau Kar Leung, Jackie Chan
2.Ong Bak 2 (2008)
Cast:Tony Jaa, Nirut Sirichanya, Sorapong Chatree,...
- 4/13/2015
- by kingofkungfu
- AsianMoviePulse
What we lack more and more these days are epic fight scenes in the final part of kung Fu/Martial Art movies. We have seen less and less one on one fight scenes in the final battle over the past 15-20 years, which is a shame but we have seen recently a few flicks bringing that winning formula back.
I want to name a few of my favorite end fight scenes and please feel free to comment below, your favorite fight scenes and maybe they will be added to the future features.
Dragons Forever
1.Dragons Forever (1988)
Cast:Jackie Chan, Sammo Hung, Yuen Biao, Yuen Wah, Benny The Jet, Billy Chow, Philip Ko, Pauline Yeung , Deannie Yip
Fight Choreographer:Sammo Hung and Crew, Jackie Chan and Crew, Corey Yuen
Snake Deadly Act
2.Snake Deadly Act (1980)
Cast:Fung Hak On, Wilson Tong, Ng Kwan Lung, Chan Wai Man, Phillip Ko
Fight Choreographer:...
I want to name a few of my favorite end fight scenes and please feel free to comment below, your favorite fight scenes and maybe they will be added to the future features.
Dragons Forever
1.Dragons Forever (1988)
Cast:Jackie Chan, Sammo Hung, Yuen Biao, Yuen Wah, Benny The Jet, Billy Chow, Philip Ko, Pauline Yeung , Deannie Yip
Fight Choreographer:Sammo Hung and Crew, Jackie Chan and Crew, Corey Yuen
Snake Deadly Act
2.Snake Deadly Act (1980)
Cast:Fung Hak On, Wilson Tong, Ng Kwan Lung, Chan Wai Man, Phillip Ko
Fight Choreographer:...
- 4/9/2015
- by kingofkungfu
- AsianMoviePulse
The good people from “Well Go USA Entertainment” presents Vengeance of an Assassin, directed by the legendary fight choreographer and film director, Panna Rittikrai. This kick ass action movie debuts on April 14th on DVD, Blu-Ray and Digital format. This movie reunite Rittikrai with Dan Chupong (“Born to Fight”). The cast also stars Nantawut Boonrupsup (“Force of Five”), Nisachon Tuamsoongnern, Kessarin Akethawatkul, Chatchapol Kulsiriwuttichai (“Ong-bak 2”), Ping Lumpraplearng and Kovit Wattankul.
Vengeance of an Assassin
Director: Panna Rittikrai
Script: Panna Rittikrai
Cast: Nantawooti Boonrapsap, Dan Chupong
Production: Thailand | 2014
Original Title: Rew thalu rew
Genre: Action | Drama
Duration: 90 minutos
Price: $24.98 (DVD) | $29.98 (Blu-Ray)
Synopsis
The Assassins’ Code: Stick to the mission. Never take your eyes off the target. Show no mercy. Natee (Dan Chupong) became a killer for one reason- to discover who killed his parents. As he gets closer to uncovering a secret network of power and corruption, he’s double-crossed on a job,...
Vengeance of an Assassin
Director: Panna Rittikrai
Script: Panna Rittikrai
Cast: Nantawooti Boonrapsap, Dan Chupong
Production: Thailand | 2014
Original Title: Rew thalu rew
Genre: Action | Drama
Duration: 90 minutos
Price: $24.98 (DVD) | $29.98 (Blu-Ray)
Synopsis
The Assassins’ Code: Stick to the mission. Never take your eyes off the target. Show no mercy. Natee (Dan Chupong) became a killer for one reason- to discover who killed his parents. As he gets closer to uncovering a secret network of power and corruption, he’s double-crossed on a job,...
- 4/1/2015
- by Sebastian Nadilo
- AsianMoviePulse
The last time Dan Chupong starred for director Panna Rittikrai it was for Born To Fight, a film that - other than stuntman Chupong - was populated almost entirely with national level Thai athletes across a variety of disciplines including, yes, the national soccer team. Most of the footie themed stunts in Born To Fight, though, were executed using CGI which clearly did not sit quite right with Rittikrai because he's going back to the combat soccer arena in the upcoming Vengeance Of An Assassin and this time it's all real.How do you pull of something like this on the big screen? Handily enough for us there's a new behind the scenes reel from the film that shows us. It's one hell of a goofy...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
- 11/6/2014
- Screen Anarchy
Though the now sadly departed action maestro Panna Rittikrai was best known as a fight choreographer thanks to his long history with Ong Bak star Tony Jaa his skill set actually ran far deeper than that and I would suggest that as good as his martial arts work was, Rittikrai's true genius lay in his ability to stage and execute long take action sequences. Need an example? Go back to Born To Fight and check out the over-the-shoulder perspective based assault sequence of Dan Chupong making his way through the village with a shotgun ... it's one of the best video game inspired perspective sequences ever captured on film.And it's this part of Rittikrai's repertoire being explored in a pair of new promo videos for...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
- 11/4/2014
- Screen Anarchy
Hot off the proverbial press we’ve just been dropped an English subbed version of the trailer from Panna Rittikrai’s (‘Born to Fight’ and ‘Bko: Bangkok Knockout’) last movie as a director... Vengeance of An Assassin, which will be released in November. Hard core fight action, violence galore and Subs, ohhhh we spoil you so! Check it out at the link. Synopsis: Being an assassin has its rules– always keep your eyes on your target; strict to your mission, execute without any hesitation and there is no room for negotiation! Each killer has his own background, but all of them has trade in their blood and losses. Natee is an assassin who decides to protect a girl whom he was ordered to kill. After they escape to a safe house where he had grown up with his brother Than. He is badly injured but is cured by Doctor Xi...
- 10/16/2014
- 24framespersecond.net
Weep for the loss of Panna Rittikrai for when the acclaimed Thai fight choreographer succumbed to illness earlier this year the fight world lost a simply enormous talent. While Rittikrai has often been viewed as a secondary player in the rise of Tony Jaa and Thai action cinema, known primarily as Ong Bak director Prachya Pinkaew's go-to fight guy, I have long been of the opinion that putting Rittikrai in any sort of secondary role does him a great disservice. As a performer and director he laid the groundwork for everything that Pinkaew has done since and, frankly, I think Rittikrai was a better director - one who knew his audience better and would go to absolutely any lengths to deliver adrenaline fueled thrills. Case...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
- 10/10/2014
- Screen Anarchy
It's the beginning of the month and so it's time for another massive giveaway competition from Madman. This month, we have three massive prize packs to give away! They are:1) The Raid 2 / Panna Rittikrai Prize Pack (pictured above): - The Raid 1 and 2, Merantau (Blu-rays or DVDs)- Ong Bak 1, 2 and 3, Chocolate, Bangkok Knockout, Born To Fight, This Girl Is Bad Ass (DVDs)2) The Bridge / Killing / Protectors Prize Pack (pictured below): - The Bridge Series 1 and 2 Collections (DVDs)- The Killing Trilogy (DVDs)- The Protectors Series 1 and 2 (DVDs)3) The Manga / Anime Prize Pack (pictured below): - Volume 1 of each of these Urawasa manga series: 20th Century Boys, Pluto, Monster- Astro Boy 60s collection (DVDs)- Astro Boy 80s collection (DVDs)For...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
- 8/3/2014
- Screen Anarchy
Thai actor, stuntman, fight choreographer, producer and director Panna Rittikrai died in a Bangkok hospital on Sunday from acute renal failure following a short battle with liver disease. He was 53. Rittikrai rose to global prominence alongside action star Tony Jaa after the breakout success of 2003's Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior, a film that put the spotlight on their energetic wire-free and realistic muay boran fighting style. Rittikrai was a long time mentor to Jaa and many other Thai action stars. Photos Hollywood's 100 Favorite Films Born Krittiya Lardphanna in Thailand's North East, Rittikrai's career in the Thai
read more...
read more...
- 7/21/2014
- by Abid Rahman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Panna Rittikrai, the action choreographer who introduced Thai action movies to world audiences, has died aged 53.
According to local press reports, Panna died from liver disease on Sunday in a Bangkok hospital. He had been battling illness since November 2013.
Born in 1961 in Khon Kaen province, Panna started working in the Bangkok film industry in 1979 training actors to fight. After moving back to his hometown, he put together his own stunt team and started making action movies. He trained Tony Jaa and had a major hit in 2003 with Ong Bak, produced by Sahamongkolfilm.
Directed by Prachya Pinkaew, Ong Bak introduced a new style of realistic, wire-free action choreography and put the Thai martial art of Muay Thai on the world map. It was swiftly followed by Tom Yum Goong (aka The Protector), reuniting the same team.
Panna soon turned director, as well as action choreographer, and directed a string of films for Sahamongkol including The Bodyguard, Ong Bak 2 and...
According to local press reports, Panna died from liver disease on Sunday in a Bangkok hospital. He had been battling illness since November 2013.
Born in 1961 in Khon Kaen province, Panna started working in the Bangkok film industry in 1979 training actors to fight. After moving back to his hometown, he put together his own stunt team and started making action movies. He trained Tony Jaa and had a major hit in 2003 with Ong Bak, produced by Sahamongkolfilm.
Directed by Prachya Pinkaew, Ong Bak introduced a new style of realistic, wire-free action choreography and put the Thai martial art of Muay Thai on the world map. It was swiftly followed by Tom Yum Goong (aka The Protector), reuniting the same team.
Panna soon turned director, as well as action choreographer, and directed a string of films for Sahamongkol including The Bodyguard, Ong Bak 2 and...
- 7/21/2014
- by lizshackleton@gmail.com (Liz Shackleton)
- ScreenDaily
Panna Rittikrai, the action choreographer who brought us Tony Jaa and Jeejaa Yanin has sadly passed away at the age of 53. It was said Panna was suffering from a long illness, which he sadly did not come through. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends at this sad time.
Panna had some great movies under his belt as choreographer, he brought the world Tony Jaa (Ong Bak movies) and more recently Tom Yum Goong 2. Also we seen Jeeja Yanin come through in the movie Chocolate and Dan Chupong (Born To Fight).
Panna started off by forming his own 20 man stunt team and was driven by watching movies from Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee. In an interview he once said “When the audience realises that the stunt-work is real — that they’re not special effects — they’ll regard it not only as spectacle but as something more high-impact,...
Panna had some great movies under his belt as choreographer, he brought the world Tony Jaa (Ong Bak movies) and more recently Tom Yum Goong 2. Also we seen Jeeja Yanin come through in the movie Chocolate and Dan Chupong (Born To Fight).
Panna started off by forming his own 20 man stunt team and was driven by watching movies from Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee. In an interview he once said “When the audience realises that the stunt-work is real — that they’re not special effects — they’ll regard it not only as spectacle but as something more high-impact,...
- 7/20/2014
- by kingofkungfu
- AsianMoviePulse
Reports are surfacing from Thailand that celebrated martial arts choreographer and film director Panna Ritthikrai has died from liver disease, aged 53.Ritthikrai is probably best known for his work with action star Tony Jaa in films such as the Ong-Bak and Tom Yum Goong series, but he also directed a number of features including The Bodyguard and the fantastic olympian-actioner Born to Fight. He was an integral player in the new wave of Thai action cinema that took the world by storm at the start of the 21st century, and continued to be a pivotal force until the very end. Gareth Evans, director of Indonesian action flick The Raid, tweeted earlier today "What Panna and Jaa did w/ Ong Bak revitalised martial arts cinema. The importance of...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
- 7/20/2014
- Screen Anarchy
Muay Thai expert and martial arts star Tony Jaa returns with “Tom Yum Goong 2” (a.k.a. “The Protector 2” or “Warrior King 2”, depending on the territory), the follow up to his highly popular elephant defending 2005 hit. The film sees him reteaming with director Prachya Pinkaew and action choreographer Panna Rittikrai, who he worked with on the original, as well as “Ong Bak” and more. As expected from a sequel, the film sticks to the concept of its predecessor and, for better or worse, takes things up several notches, with a bigger budget, 3D effects and even crazier large scale action scenes. Jaa again plays Kham, the film opening with him living a peaceful life in the countryside and teaching young kids martial arts while taking care of his beloved elephant Khon, a sacred beast he is sworn to protect. After Khon is snatched again and Kham is framed...
- 6/3/2014
- by James Mudge
- Beyond Hollywood
Thai action star Tony Jaa is back to kick some more ass in a sequel to his 2005 film The Protector. The Protector 2 was directed by Prachya Pinkaew, who not only directed the first film but also worked with Jaa on Ong Bak. the movie also features some amazing fight choreography by Jaa and his mentor, Panna Rittikrai. Some of the stunts they pull off look absolutely insane! You just have to watch the trailer to see the awesomeness for yourself. If you haven't seen the first movie yet, it's definitely worth watching.
Boss Suchart is the influential owner of a major elephant camp. When he was murdered in his own home – the killer delivered three fatal blows on his body – all evidence points to Kham (Tony Jaa), who was present at the crime scene and was seen with the victim the moment before he died. Kham is forced to...
Boss Suchart is the influential owner of a major elephant camp. When he was murdered in his own home – the killer delivered three fatal blows on his body – all evidence points to Kham (Tony Jaa), who was present at the crime scene and was seen with the victim the moment before he died. Kham is forced to...
- 2/25/2014
- by Joey Paur
- GeekTyrant
Yesterday Twitch reported on a new conference in Thailand in which Sahamongkol head Sia Jiang, Ong Bak director Prachya Pinkaew and fight choreographer Panna Rittikrai appeared before Thai press, stated that Tony Jaa was under a new ten year contract with Sahamongkol, that he had breached said contract by signing on for a role in Fast And Furious 7 without their permission, and that they intended to sue if this was not rectified immediately. Later in the day we received word from Jaa's management saying not true, there is no contract in place. Here's the complete statement:As Tony Jaa's manager I am posting this in his behalf. Tony has always had the greatest respect for Sahamongkol and the people behind Sahamongkol. He is therefore saddened...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
- 9/8/2013
- Screen Anarchy
Sometimes the side show just never seems to end ...Thai action star Tony Jaa is, once again, in the center of a controversy with his Ong Bak and Tom Yum Goong producers at Sahamongkol film, this time thanks to his announced casting in the upcoming Fast And Furious 7. Jaa had recently signed a ten year contract with the studio - his second such contract - and earlier this week studio head Sia Jang, Ong Bak director Prachya Pinkaew and choreographer Panna Rittikrai called a joint press conference in which they told Thai press that Jaa had breached his contract by accepting the part without their permission and that if he failed to secure said permission - they never specified what would be required to...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
- 9/7/2013
- Screen Anarchy
Tony Jaa is back. It's been a tough few years for the former Buddhist monk, but we're pleased to announce the return to big screen action for one of Thailand's brightest stars. After going way over budget on the highly anticipated sequels to Ong-Bak, the first time director and star abandoned production and escaped to a secluded cave hideaway. It was his mentor - Ong-Bak director Panna Rittikrai - that stepped in to save the film. They weren't the best of friends for a little while but time is a great healer and now they're back in action, on a quest to rescue Kham's (Jaa) pet elephant. Again. The plot - as is usually the case - really isn't up to much, but Rittikrai and Jaa have something special up their sleeves. That's right, for the hotly anticipated sequel Jaa has teamed up with none other than Yanin "Jeeja" Vismitananda...
- 8/22/2013
- 24framespersecond.net
Stars: Sasisa Jimdamanee, Johnny Nguyen, Nantawooti Boonrapsap, Arunya Pawilai, Nawarat Techarathanaprasert, Paytaai Wongkamlao | Written byNonont Kontaweesook, Napalee | Directed by Krissanapong Rachata
Despite their small size and inexperience, having grown up under the roof of a Muay Thai school two young brothers and their friends have become highly skilled, if undisciplined, martial artists. Sadly, the youngest of the gang suffers from an acute heart condition, which following a minor scuffle with some local bullies lands him in hospital and desperately in need of a life-saving transplant. Fortunately, a viable heart soon becomes available at another local hospital, but before it can be transferred the building is overtaken by rebel soldiers-turned-terrorists prepared to kill if their politically-driven demands are not met by the authorities.
With only four hours in which the surgery can be performed successfully, the young friends take it upon themselves to infiltrate the hospital and retrieve the donated organ.
Despite their small size and inexperience, having grown up under the roof of a Muay Thai school two young brothers and their friends have become highly skilled, if undisciplined, martial artists. Sadly, the youngest of the gang suffers from an acute heart condition, which following a minor scuffle with some local bullies lands him in hospital and desperately in need of a life-saving transplant. Fortunately, a viable heart soon becomes available at another local hospital, but before it can be transferred the building is overtaken by rebel soldiers-turned-terrorists prepared to kill if their politically-driven demands are not met by the authorities.
With only four hours in which the surgery can be performed successfully, the young friends take it upon themselves to infiltrate the hospital and retrieve the donated organ.
- 8/8/2013
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
I have long had a very simple principle when watching films with action choreography by Panna Rittikrai: Watch out for motorcycles. Because whenever motorcycles appear something crazy is about to happen. And by crazy I mean someone may very well die. This is a principle that extends back well beyond his work on Ong Bak and Tom Yum Goong into his very earliest efforts and, yes, there are a Lot of motorcycles in the first trailer for Tom Yum Goong 2. The sales promo for the reunion between Ong Bak director Prachya Pinkaew and star Tony Jaa leaked online some time back in a very grotty, low resolution version but given the quality issues with that video and the fact that sales promos almost always...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
- 7/31/2013
- Screen Anarchy
Panna Rittikrai and Dan Chupong are getting back together. Best known as the mentor to and fight choreographer for Tony Jaa, Rittikrai had a long career as a screen fighter and director himself, the man plying his trade in a string of ultra low budget grinders never seen anywhere outside of Thailand until Jaa vaulted him to fame. And so when Rittikrai was given the first real budget of his career in 2004 to direct Born To Fight - a remake of one of his own earlier titles - nobody thought that much of it. It was, among other things, simply a gesture of respect from producers Sahamongkol, a thank you to the veteran performer who had groomed and prepared Tony Jaa to become by...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
- 4/19/2013
- Screen Anarchy
Throw international martial arts badass Tony Jaa (“Ong Bak”) and low-budget 80s action icon Dolph Lundgren (“The Expendables,” “Red Scorpion”) into a movie together and you immediately have my attention. And that movie is “A Man Will Rise.” The other day, we had a few pictures from the set, but little to no actual information about the film, formerly titled “Local Hero.” Well now we’re back with even more photos, and whole bunch of news. And this isn’t just news, this is news that will pique your interest, especially if you enjoy watching people get pummeled about the head and face. First off, Tony Jaa is not only the star of “A Man Will Rise,” he’s also directing. This is his third venture behind the camera, as he helmed both “Ong Bak 2” and “Ong Bak 3.” He’s also bringing his old pal Panna Rittikrai (co-director of the two aforementioned films,...
- 4/12/2013
- by Brent McKnight
- Beyond Hollywood
Directed by Prachya Pinkaew of Ong-bak fame, choreographed by stunt coordinator Panna Rittikrai and debuting Yanin Vismitananda, Chocolates a no stunt double martial arts extravaganza and one of the best and craziest fight films in the last decade and it’s the next film up for a screening a the Terracotta Film Club, at the Prince Charles Cinema, London. If you’ve never seen this movie (shame on you) we can’t think of a better way to take it in for the first time, than on the Big screen. The Event is on Wednesday 27 March and we’d imagine they will go fast, so snap up a ticket in advance, from the Prince Charles Cinema website. Synopsis: What happens when an autistic girl, with uncanny reflex and mimicking abilities, spends a lifetime watching martial art films? She becomes the baddest chick on the planet. Though born autistic, Zen has...
- 3/7/2013
- 24framespersecond.net
Get ready for something different, Tony Jaa fans. Having built his early notoriety at least partially on the promise of no wires and no CGI enhancement in the action and stunt sequences of his previous films Jaa and director Prachya Pinkaew are utilizing both for the upcoming Tom Yum Goong 2.Though a rarity in the work of action choreographer Panna Rittikrai, he has shown a willingness to dip into both areas when the action calls for it. Mercury Man and Dynamite Warrior both made extensive use of both wire and CGI work, for example, and even the much more raw Born To Fight includes one notable CGI gag. This is a first for Jaa, however, one necessitated by some of the 3D gags in the...
- 12/17/2012
- Screen Anarchy
Last week ago we had our first look at the screenshots of Ong Bak Tri, a video game based on the Thai film franchise featuring Tony Jaa in digital form and master choreographer Panna Rittikrai onboard to design the fighting moves. How does the actual gameplay look in action? Take a gander at the teaser trailer and judge for yourself...Wait a sec, did the trailer mention an all-new upcoming Ong Bak movie? I'll believe it when I see it.The 2.5D side-scroller is developed by Studio Hive and will be released worldwide this winter by Immanitas Entertainment for PC, consoles and mobile phones....
- 12/5/2012
- Screen Anarchy
It's been a quiet 10 months since Studio Hive first released details about their planned video game followup to Thai action star Tony Jaa's "Ong Bak" martial arts trilogy. And based on these recently released screens (scoped out by film site Twitch), it looks like the story will continue in the Thai historical period, abandoning the modern setting of the first film.
Originally announced as a late 2012 release, publisher Immanitas Entertainment says the 2.5D brawler will be making its way to the PC and mobile devices, but it's unclear which consoles it'll be brutalizing when it's finally done.
Immanitas Entertainment to publish official Ong Bak Game worldwide
The official Ong Bak game, Ong Bak Tri, currently being developed by Thai developer Studio Hive, based on the next installment of the popular Ong Bak movie franchise, will be published exclusively by Immanitas Entertainment this winter worldwide for PC, consoles and smartphones.
Originally announced as a late 2012 release, publisher Immanitas Entertainment says the 2.5D brawler will be making its way to the PC and mobile devices, but it's unclear which consoles it'll be brutalizing when it's finally done.
Immanitas Entertainment to publish official Ong Bak Game worldwide
The official Ong Bak game, Ong Bak Tri, currently being developed by Thai developer Studio Hive, based on the next installment of the popular Ong Bak movie franchise, will be published exclusively by Immanitas Entertainment this winter worldwide for PC, consoles and smartphones.
- 11/26/2012
- by Charles Webb
- MTV Multiplayer
Thai director Prachya Pinkaew and choreographer Panna Rittikrai return with more martial arts action in “The Kick”, which sees a family of Korean taekwondo masters taking on criminals in Thailand. The men who gave the world the hugely popular series “Ong Bak” serves up more of the same, with high-octane action going hand in hand with crazy stunts and top notch athleticism, though this time with more comedy and a family friendly appeal. The cast is made up of a mixture of Korean and Thai stars, including Cho Jae Hyun (“Bad Guy”), Ye Ji Won (“Hanji”), real life martial artists Kim Kyung Suk and Na Tae Joo, and Thai comedian Petchthai Wongkamlao. Excitingly, the film also sees Pinkaew working again with the sensational Jija Yanin, who he first introduced back in 2008 in the awesome thriller “Chocolate”. The knockabout plot sees the Moon family from Korea running a restaurant in Bangkok,...
- 8/16/2012
- by James Mudge
- Beyond Hollywood
For those that are confused (which would obviously include me) the column that has the url: http://www.soundonsight.org/fantasia-2012-mike-ryans-five-most-anticipated-films/ is actually my column on the five films that I am most upset to be Missing.
This is my column on five seven films that I am most looking forward to:
1) Takashi Miike (For Love’s Sake and Ace Attorney)
For Love’s Sake (2012) Written by Takayuki Takuma, Ikki Kajiwara, Takumi Nagayasu, Directed by Takashi Miike
You really only need three words to sell For Love’s Sake: Takashi. Miike. Musical.
But here are a few more words…
Takashi Miike is beloved by the Fantasia crowd for pushing the boundaries of genre filmmaking in films like Audition, Visitor Q and Ichi the Killer, but I tend to prefer Miike when he is working in a specific sub-genre where he is forced to subvert the conventions at play in more subtle ways,...
This is my column on five seven films that I am most looking forward to:
1) Takashi Miike (For Love’s Sake and Ace Attorney)
For Love’s Sake (2012) Written by Takayuki Takuma, Ikki Kajiwara, Takumi Nagayasu, Directed by Takashi Miike
You really only need three words to sell For Love’s Sake: Takashi. Miike. Musical.
But here are a few more words…
Takashi Miike is beloved by the Fantasia crowd for pushing the boundaries of genre filmmaking in films like Audition, Visitor Q and Ichi the Killer, but I tend to prefer Miike when he is working in a specific sub-genre where he is forced to subvert the conventions at play in more subtle ways,...
- 7/16/2012
- by Michael Ryan
- SoundOnSight
The Muay Thai action film series and its lead are getting their own sidescrolling brawler.
Fact: the Ong Bak films briefly drove star Tony Jaa into madness, a brief flirtation with being a monk, and maybe-possibly saw him being menaced by some gangster-types. It's strange, fascinating stuff. All that shouldn't detract from Jaa's immense martial arts skill and kind of the de facto ambassador for Muay Thai-style fighting on the screen. And like martial arts stars Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and Jet Li before him, dude's getting a game.
Over on Playstation Lifestyle, the blog has an interview with Thailand-based Studio Hive General Manager Kan Supabanpot about the upcoming Ong Bak game, which is targeted for a late 2012 release. The interview doesn't reveal platform specifics, but Supabanpot does say that it is based on an unannounced project (Ong Bak 4?), and that Jaa and his mentor Panna Rittikrai are both involved...
Fact: the Ong Bak films briefly drove star Tony Jaa into madness, a brief flirtation with being a monk, and maybe-possibly saw him being menaced by some gangster-types. It's strange, fascinating stuff. All that shouldn't detract from Jaa's immense martial arts skill and kind of the de facto ambassador for Muay Thai-style fighting on the screen. And like martial arts stars Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and Jet Li before him, dude's getting a game.
Over on Playstation Lifestyle, the blog has an interview with Thailand-based Studio Hive General Manager Kan Supabanpot about the upcoming Ong Bak game, which is targeted for a late 2012 release. The interview doesn't reveal platform specifics, but Supabanpot does say that it is based on an unannounced project (Ong Bak 4?), and that Jaa and his mentor Panna Rittikrai are both involved...
- 1/27/2012
- by Charles Webb
- MTV Multiplayer
In this week's episode, Tyler and Ben are joined by Joe Leininger (from The Playing Field) to discuss Panna Rittikrai's 2010 film, Bko: Bangkok Knockout.
Introduction
Character Name Game Intro - 2:37
Media Consumed
Joe
"I Hate My Teenage Daughter" - 3:59
"American Horror Story" - 6:23
Delirious - 8:36
Tyler
"Gilligan's Island" - 10:25
It's A Wonderful Life - 11:33
"Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives" - 11:58
Ben
Jason Reitman's live read of The Princess Bride - 13:59
Review
Bko: Bangkok Knockout - 18:20
Wrap-Up
Next Time: Mystery Film - 37:40
Listener E-mail/Voicemail/Twitter - 38:55
Character Name Game - 42:25
Where You Can Find Us - 44:28
(Read Ben's coverage of Jason Reitman's live read of The Princess Bride here.)...
- 12/24/2011
- by benp
- GeekTyrant
These days Thai film means one thing to most of our readers, and that is action. We've seen the recent renaissance from stars like Tony Jaa and directors like Panna Rittikrai and Prachya Pinkaew and it almost seems like this stuff sprung up out of the ground fully formed. That is not the case, however, and God bless Attackafant Entertainment for giving us a peek into Thailand's crazy cinematic past with The Killer Elephants.This ain't no circus! From the depths of Thai film history comes Kom Akadej's forgotten masterpiece about cops, gangsters, a house-crushing story of love, and killer elephants! Starring legendary superstar Metanee and a who's who of 1970's Thai cinema! Filled with the traditional stunts and action of Thailand, from brutal fistfights to...
- 10/28/2011
- Screen Anarchy
If we're talking about the action showcased in B.K.O.: Bangkok Knockout, the 'B.K.O.' in the title may well stand for 'Bold', 'Kick-ass' and 'Oh my goodness! Did you see what they just did?' But then, you would not expect anything less from legendary Thai action director Panna Rittikrai, would you? To put simply, B.K.O.: Bangkok Knockout is a 100% pure action extravaganza. The story is simple: a group of fighters win the chance to join a Hollywood production, but find that they have instead become the subjects of a game of death, where all their moves are observed and their fates are betted upon. Now if this sounds familiar to you, please understand it is not much more than a way to justify all...
- 9/20/2011
- Screen Anarchy
Panna Rittikrai sure can pick 'em. The man who introduced the world to Tony Jaa has discovered the next batch of Thai madmen prepared to risk life and limb to entertain you. The nine new faces in Bko: Bangkok Knockout do things with and to their bodies that no sane person would attempt, but that's Thai stunt work for you, always pushing the envelope and making the audience somehow simultaneously cringe and cheer. This movie is all but devoid of plot and exists only to pit crazy talented stunt men against one another in increasingly violent and absurd situations. In the immortal words of En Vogue, "Free your mind, and the rest will follow." Don't attempt to analyze, but lean back, and prepare to be...
- 9/17/2011
- Screen Anarchy
DVD Playhouse—September 2011
By Allen Gardner
In A Better World (Sony) Winner of last year’s Best Foreign Film Oscar, this Danish export looks at two fractured families and the effect that the adult world dysfunction has on their two sons, who form an immediate and potentially deadly bond. Director Susanne Bier delivers another powerful work that maintains its drive during the films’ first 2/3, then falters somewhat during the last act. Still, well-worth seeing, and beautifully made. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Deleted scenes; Commentary by Bier and editor Pernille Bech Christensen; Interview with Bier. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-hd 5.1 surround.
X-men First Class (20th Century Fox) “Origins” film set in the early 1960s, traces the beginnings of Magento and Professor X (played ably here by Michael Fassbender and James McAvoy), and how the once-close friends and colleagues became bitter enemies. First half is slam-bang entertainment at its stylish best,...
By Allen Gardner
In A Better World (Sony) Winner of last year’s Best Foreign Film Oscar, this Danish export looks at two fractured families and the effect that the adult world dysfunction has on their two sons, who form an immediate and potentially deadly bond. Director Susanne Bier delivers another powerful work that maintains its drive during the films’ first 2/3, then falters somewhat during the last act. Still, well-worth seeing, and beautifully made. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Deleted scenes; Commentary by Bier and editor Pernille Bech Christensen; Interview with Bier. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-hd 5.1 surround.
X-men First Class (20th Century Fox) “Origins” film set in the early 1960s, traces the beginnings of Magento and Professor X (played ably here by Michael Fassbender and James McAvoy), and how the once-close friends and colleagues became bitter enemies. First half is slam-bang entertainment at its stylish best,...
- 9/11/2011
- by The Hollywood Interview.com
- The Hollywood Interview
Just a quick heads up for our American readers. Panna Rittikrai, the man behind Ong Bak, Born To Fight, Chocolate and a number of other Thai martial arts films you know and love has a new movie called Bangkok Knockout out in the U.S. today courtesy of Magnet Releasing. It's on shelves now in DVD and Blu-Ray and comes with behind the scenes and making-of featurettes. You know by now what to expect from a Rittikrai movie, so if that type of head-busting awesomeness is your thing, then you need to get on this.
- 8/30/2011
- 24framespersecond.net
Just a quick heads up for our American readers. Panna Rittikrai, the man behind Ong Bak, Born To Fight, Chocolate and a number of other Thai martial arts films you know and love has a new movie called Bangkok Knockout out in the U.S. today courtesy of Magnet Releasing. It's on shelves now in DVD and Blu-Ray and comes with behind the scenes and making-of featurettes. You know by now what to expect from a Rittikrai movie, so if that type of head-busting awesomeness is your thing, then you need to get on this.
- 8/30/2011
- 24framespersecond.net
An opening ceremony to officially kick off the production of Tom Yum Goong 2 has already begun last Wednesday with the cast & crew in attendance. To bring the most action packed fighting the studios has to offer for the much anticipated sequel in 3D, action director Panna Rittikrai has assembled a martial arts cast line-up to join Tony Jaa and Jeeja Yanin (aka Jija Yanin). These include Dan Chupong (Dynamite Warrior, Ong Bak 3), Kazu Tang (Raging Phoenix, Bko: Bangkok Knockout) and American martial artist Marrese Crump, who is set to appear in Pittikrai's Formless and RZA's The Man With The Iron Fists. Returning from the first installment is director/producer Prachya Pinkaew and Thai comedian Mum Jokmok (aka Petchtai Wongkamlao). No word yet on...
- 8/19/2011
- Screen Anarchy
Bko: Bangkok Knockout aka Koht Soo Koht Soh
Directed by Panna Rittikrai
Written by Panna Rittikrai, Dojit Hongthong and Jonathon Siminoe
Thailand, 2010
Fantasia imdb
It comes as a bit of a shock to say that Bangkok Knokout is the best Kung Fu flick of this year’s Fantasia. It’s not as surprising to say that it includes the best martial arts and the best stunt work of the Festival. Thailand has been bringing the world the most bone-shattering, dirty, dangerous martial arts work since 2003′s Ong Bak and much of the credit for that can go to Panna Rittikrai, director of Ong Bak and Chocolate – or to put it another way, the man who introduced the world to Tony Jaa and Jeeja Yanin.
But great fighting by itself does not make for a great fighting film. The problem with most Thai films have been their weird and frequently incomprehensible...
Directed by Panna Rittikrai
Written by Panna Rittikrai, Dojit Hongthong and Jonathon Siminoe
Thailand, 2010
Fantasia imdb
It comes as a bit of a shock to say that Bangkok Knokout is the best Kung Fu flick of this year’s Fantasia. It’s not as surprising to say that it includes the best martial arts and the best stunt work of the Festival. Thailand has been bringing the world the most bone-shattering, dirty, dangerous martial arts work since 2003′s Ong Bak and much of the credit for that can go to Panna Rittikrai, director of Ong Bak and Chocolate – or to put it another way, the man who introduced the world to Tony Jaa and Jeeja Yanin.
But great fighting by itself does not make for a great fighting film. The problem with most Thai films have been their weird and frequently incomprehensible...
- 8/6/2011
- by Michael Ryan
- SoundOnSight
In many ways "Bangkok Knockout" is the perfect film for Fantasia (or any other similarly themed genre fest), but let's be clear: the latest from "Ong Bak 2" and "Ong Bak 3" director Panna Rittikrai is terrible in almost every conceivable technical, narrative and aesthetic category. It's atrociously acted, with a derivative, absurd story shot with no real skill except in making sure that when two characters are speaking to each other, they are both in the frame. However, when it's time for the fights--which are frequent, exciting and amazingly staged, Rittikrai is firmly in his element and the audience…...
- 8/2/2011
- The Playlist
This looks fun, and our quote in the press release says it is, awesome! There's nothing quite like a little bit of Thai martial arts action, and this one flew a little bit under the radar, but if it is anywhere near as much fun as the films the cite in the press release, it's worth a shot. Any film directed by Panna Rittikrai is sure to have some bone crunching action and flying knees to the face, and that's never a bad thing. Bko: Bangkok Knockout recently played the New York Asian Film Festival, and comes to Blu-ray and DVD on August 30thFROM The Director And Fight Choreographer Of Born To Fight And The Ong Bak Franchisebko: Bangkok KNOCKOUTOnly The Strong Will Survive In...
- 7/27/2011
- Screen Anarchy
Director: Panna Rittikrai. Review: Adam Wing. Panna Rittikrai is probably best known to western audiences for his collaborations with Thai movie sensation Tony Jaa. Born in 1961, Panna is a Thai martial arts action choreographer, film director, screenwriter and actor. Not only the leader of the Muay Thai Stunt team, but also the man responsible for the stunning action sequences found in Ong Bak and The Warrior King, both starring the formidable Tony Jaa, whom of course Panna mentored. Bangkok Knockout (just plain Knockout on these shores) probably felt like a breath of fresh air to Panna, following the turbulent time he spent co-directing Tony Jaa’s bloated sequels to Ong Bak. It must be nice for him to get back to what he does best - having stepped in to save those films from financial ruin - away from talk of spiritual healing, cave dwellings and deluded movie sensations. You...
- 7/19/2011
- 24framespersecond.net
Get ready New Yorkers: the 2011 New York Asian Film Festival, two weeks of amazing (and sometimes amazingly weird) cinema, starts today at Lincoln Center's Walter Reade Theater. This year's lineup is massive, so here are a few recommendations to get you started. There are lots of other good films at the fest, but you absolutely cannot miss these three.
"Sell Out!"
Directed by Yeo Joon Han, 2008
If "Dr. Strangelove" and "Office Space" had a baby, and then that baby was raised in a karaoke bar, it might look something like "Sell Out!" a hilarious, demented, and wildly creative comic musical from Malaysia. The film opens with TV host Rafflesia Pong (Jerrica Lai) interviewing a totally nude man named "Yeo Joon Han" -- a.k.a. the director of the movie we're watching -- in honor of his being named the Kryzhindangzhongbushaus Village Far Easter Film Festival's Young Oversea-Chinese Women New...
"Sell Out!"
Directed by Yeo Joon Han, 2008
If "Dr. Strangelove" and "Office Space" had a baby, and then that baby was raised in a karaoke bar, it might look something like "Sell Out!" a hilarious, demented, and wildly creative comic musical from Malaysia. The film opens with TV host Rafflesia Pong (Jerrica Lai) interviewing a totally nude man named "Yeo Joon Han" -- a.k.a. the director of the movie we're watching -- in honor of his being named the Kryzhindangzhongbushaus Village Far Easter Film Festival's Young Oversea-Chinese Women New...
- 7/1/2011
- by Matt Singer
- ifc.com
The New York Asian Film Festival has announced that its tenth anniversary edition will open on July 1 with the North American premiere of Yoshimasa Ishibashi's Milocrorze: A Love Story ("one solid slab of psychedelia," promises the festival; image above) and close on July 14 with the New York premiere of Na Hong-Jin's The Yellow Sea (aka The Murderer), which has just screened at Cannes in Un Certain Regard (see the roundup).
There'll be two Centerpiece Presentations, Benny Chan's Shaolin, with Andy Lau, Nic Tse and Jackie Chan, and Takashi Miike's Ninja Kids!!! — which, you may remember Danny Kasman caught in Cannes, and got quite a nice kick out of it, too. The festival will also be screening Miike's "director's cut" of 13 Assassins.
There'll be three special focuses. First off...
Wu Xia: Hong Kong's Flying Swordsmen
Tsui Hark's Detective Dee and the Mystery of the Phantom Flame...
There'll be two Centerpiece Presentations, Benny Chan's Shaolin, with Andy Lau, Nic Tse and Jackie Chan, and Takashi Miike's Ninja Kids!!! — which, you may remember Danny Kasman caught in Cannes, and got quite a nice kick out of it, too. The festival will also be screening Miike's "director's cut" of 13 Assassins.
There'll be three special focuses. First off...
Wu Xia: Hong Kong's Flying Swordsmen
Tsui Hark's Detective Dee and the Mystery of the Phantom Flame...
- 5/31/2011
- MUBI
The Tribeca Film Festival has the stars. The New York Film Festival has the award winners. But the New York Asian Film Festival has the coolest, boldest, and strangest genre movies, and that's why it holds a special place in my heart. While most festivals specialize in quote-unquote arthouse fare, Nyaff brings the Asian mainstream -- the stuff that would almost never play here otherwise -- to America.
We're big fans of the Nyaff at IFC and we're looking forward to another excellent edition this year. The lineup was just announced and it looks stacked. It includes a few superb films I saw at last year's Fantastic Fest, including the entertaining exploitation documentary "Machete Maidens Unleashed" from "Not Quite Hollywood" director Mark Hartley. The stuff I'm jazzed to see for the first time includes the world premiere of Takashi Miike's "Ninja Kids!!!" (their exclamation points, not mine), "Ocean Heaven,...
We're big fans of the Nyaff at IFC and we're looking forward to another excellent edition this year. The lineup was just announced and it looks stacked. It includes a few superb films I saw at last year's Fantastic Fest, including the entertaining exploitation documentary "Machete Maidens Unleashed" from "Not Quite Hollywood" director Mark Hartley. The stuff I'm jazzed to see for the first time includes the world premiere of Takashi Miike's "Ninja Kids!!!" (their exclamation points, not mine), "Ocean Heaven,...
- 5/31/2011
- by Matt Singer
- ifc.com
When I’m watching a movie that relies heavily on awe-inspiring stunt work and jaw-dropping martial arts, I honestly couldn’t care less about the plot. Yes, it’s kind of nice when a kung fu movie employs thought-provoking storylines or in-depth character development, but these elements aren’t necessarily required. I’ve seen plenty of empty-headed fight films in my day, many of which employ some of the most amazing stunt work ever recorded on film. Sometimes the plot is nothing more than a means to an end, a framework on which to hang one action-packed set piece after another. And that’s okay, as long as you’re one of those lucky individuals who don’t mind style over substance. That having been said, director Panna Rittikrai’s 2010 action extravaganza “Bangkok Knockout” is one seriously awful film. The characters are thin, the plot is ridiculous, the pacing is...
- 5/29/2011
- by Todd Rigney
- Beyond Hollywood
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