Thai Action Cinema in the Socio-Cultural Context

Abstract

The memory of Thai action cinema is limited to entertainment and projection of Muay Thai as the national heritage.  This article aims to discuss some philosophy and socio-cultural value having been looked over via the early works comprising Ong Bak and Tom Yum Kung which passed on concepts and spiritual messages about Thainess through the image of ancient Muay Thai.  In brief, each film tells the story of the character who practices Muay Thai to the degree that he becomes a supreme human being.  He achieves the strength in terms of mind, body, and intelligence and will only performs Muay Thai as ruled by the ancient tradition.  It is to protect the weak, the nation, including the righteousness.  This reflects Thainess from the civilized perspective as well as suggesting superiority of Thai culture amidst the stream of westernization whose theme lends weight to the external development other than the internal one.