I saw this movie in Thailand, where I lived for a few years. It was one of the more popular local flicks released that year. The Thais loved it, and they're quite proud of its international success. A Thai friend of mine has told me every day this week how well Ong Bak is doing at the box office.
When I saw it, my first reaction was "Unbelievable!" Lets face it, since Bruce Lee, up through Chuck Norris and Van Damme, to Jackie Chan and Jet Li... these flicks are always over the top. But this guy has moves that will drop your jaw. Some of them are shown from a couple angles, or in slow-mo, and even after this "instant replay" you'll still leave the scene wondering "Man, how'd he do THAT?". The guy is amazing.
This film also puts a nice touch on the genre, since it isn't "from China", or based on the tried-and-true Chinese origins. The filming in Thailand will give you some different scenes, and some local variations on your favorite themes (the Tuk-Tuk chase scene is great!).
I'd say if you love your martial arts, you'd be a fool to miss this one.
When I saw it, my first reaction was "Unbelievable!" Lets face it, since Bruce Lee, up through Chuck Norris and Van Damme, to Jackie Chan and Jet Li... these flicks are always over the top. But this guy has moves that will drop your jaw. Some of them are shown from a couple angles, or in slow-mo, and even after this "instant replay" you'll still leave the scene wondering "Man, how'd he do THAT?". The guy is amazing.
This film also puts a nice touch on the genre, since it isn't "from China", or based on the tried-and-true Chinese origins. The filming in Thailand will give you some different scenes, and some local variations on your favorite themes (the Tuk-Tuk chase scene is great!).
I'd say if you love your martial arts, you'd be a fool to miss this one.