THE COMMUNICATION OF PEOPLE IDENTITY THROUGH MODERN THAI FILMS

Abstract

        Modern Thai films “4 Kings” (2021) directed by Puttipong Nakthong, and “The Undertaker” (2023) directed by Thiti Srinuan, have established new revenue records for the Thai film industry. This development has revitalized and drawn more attention to the Thai film industry.

        This development has prompted the researcher to investigate the communication of people’s identity through modern Thai films. Focusing specifically on “4 Kings” and “The Undertaker”, this study aims to analyze the mechanisms by which modern Thai films reflect people’s identity as well as to examine the narrative structure employed in these cinematic works.

        The findings indicate that the communication of people’s identity through modern Thai films is characterized by two main types of representation:

1. Communicating identity through people encompasses various elements, including language, appearance, beliefs, and attitudes.
2. Communicating identity through social and cultural contexts involves a range of factors, including environmental influences, geographic characteristics, social class, political dynamics, and subcultural affiliations.

        These two types of identity communication contribute to a cohesive narrative structure, allowing audiences to recognize their own "self" reflected in modern Thai films. Consequently, the people’s identity depicted in the films is conveyed and permeates into new societies, leading to imitation and the reproduction of various forms of identity.