CLEMENTINE'S REVIEWS

10th February 2010
Ong Bak 2 (2008)

Directors: Tony Jaa, Panna Rittikrai
Writer: Panna Rittikrai
Starring: Tony Jaa, Sorapong Chatree, Sarunyu Wongkrachang, Nirut Sirichanya, Dan Chupong, Santisuk Promsiri, Primorata Dejudom, Natdanai Kongthong.

What a misleading title. Ong Bak - perhaps at a stretch, 2 definitely not.

It would almost win extra points if it was called a different name altogether. After the initial scenes of ancient Thailand, I spent most of the movie wondering when it cut to the setting of Ong Bak. Heads up it never does!

When he is forced to fight for his life, the young slave Tien (Natdanai Kongthong, later played by Tony Jaa) catches the eye of a local martial arts pirate leader, who quickly recruits him the gang. Gradually, Tien masters the fighting skills to take on any adversary, and becomes second in command to the pirate gang. We discover Tien's dark past, and the events which led to his enslavement.

With any classic martial arts film, plot is secondary to the action. I understand this is strictly a vehicle for Jaa's incredible talent as a martial artist, but there is something lacking in this sequel. I know, I know, I did say you can watch Ong Bak without subtitles and still get the story. It was spirited, fresh and really great to see a rising martial arts movie star. There were loads of wonderful acrobatics and spectacular wow moments, which were completely lacking in Ong Bak 2. This film had hard, long, angry fighting, without the awe, surprise, or anything impressive.

On the upside, the historic Thai costumes and settings showed a lot of attention on the side of the designers, and the actors were all relatively commendable. I have the greatest respect for Jaa's skills and work. While this one film leaves me disappointed, I do look forward to seeing his future projects.

Verdict: Perfect if youre only looking for blood, sweat, action - and nothing to think about.