Tony Jaa began his career as a stuntman for other actors, much like one of his martial arts inspirations, Jackie Chan. Working under his master and mentor, Thai director Panna Rittikrai, Jaa took hits and tumbles in equal measure before getting his first starring role in 2005’s (American debut) Ong Bak: The Thai Warrior. Ong Bak found immediate success, both with critics and audiences, as a showcase for Jaa’s acrobatic prowess and impressive organic stuntwork (again, like Jackie Chan, Jaa performed all of his own stunts) during a time when wire-based action was a staple in martial arts films. Two years later, Jaa followed with his second film, The Protector, which was less well reviewed Stateside but continued to highlight Jaa’s talents.
With audiences looking for more of the same, Ong Bak 2, Jaa’s first directorial effort, began production in 2006, but encountered some setbacks that delayed the release of the film. Now, the much anticipated sequel (whose story, interestingly, does not tie in with either Ong Bak 1 or The Protector), finally opens this month in limited release, and it looks to be much grittier than his previous two films. We decided to ask Tony what his Five Favorite Films were, and the choices he offered reflect the various influences that have shaped his career.
Ong Bak 1 is a very important and personal movie for me. It combined many types of martial arts and it’s the movie that introduced the world to Tony Jaa and Muay Thai. I’m extremely proud of this movie.
I loved Heath Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker. His performance was thrilling and the plot was remarkable. The editing is also amazing. I believe quality editing is an important tool in properly displaying such a heroic tale.
Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris are the main characters and you can find perfect kung fu fighting in this movie. They are my two favorite kung fu actors.
Jackie Chan is legendary in this film. I used to watch it all the time when I was a young boy. It served as my inspiration to learn how to fight (under the guidance of Master Panna Rittikrai).
Tom Hanks is an excellent actor, especially in this film. It is a beautiful film and has such a deep meaning. It is an amazing film and each of the characters is truly outstanding.
Ong Bak 2 opens in limited release on October 23rd.
For more Five Favorite Films, check our archive.
