Tony Jaa shares Life of Action II
Martial arts movie star Tony Jaa (Ong Bak, Triple Threat) shared a picture with his copy of Life of Action II.
Of course, I was thrilled when he first agreed to come onboard and he gives a great interview in the new book on his early life growing up in Thailand, right through to his life-changing, highly influential roles in Ong Bak and Tom yum goong (aka The Protector), stories navigating Hollywood, the motivations and driving force behind what he does, and much more! The latest book is available now.
From Life of Action
Born in 1976 in the rural Surin Province in the North East of Thailand, the young Tony Jaa was inspired by Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan and Jet Li, never realising it would pave the way for his own career as a world class action star.
As a boy, he learned Muay Thai from his father before enrolling in college and continuing his education. Spotted by local filmmaker Panna Rittikrai, Jaa became his protégé. Following early work in Mue prab puen hode (aka Hard Gun), Plook mun kuen ma kah 4 (aka Spirited Killer) and an early Hollywood stunt gig in Mortal Kombat: Annihilation, Jaa met action filmmaker Prachya Pinkaew and catapulted to fame through his breakthrough starring vehicle, Ong Bak. Stunning global audiences and introducing many to the exotic martial art of Muay Thai, a new star was born. This impressive debut was followed up by Tom yum goong (aka The Protector and Warrior King) with Jaa even co-directing sequels Ong Bak 2, Ong Bak 3 and Tom yum goong 2.
After a contractual dispute, eventually parting ways with production and distribution company Sahamongkol Film International, Jaa was suddenly free to pursue opportunities elsewhere in the world. This led to new and exciting work allowing him to stretch both his physical skills and acting range. This includes Skin Trade, SPL 2 and Triple Threat in the east, and Fast & Furious, xXx: Return of Xander Cage and Monster Hunter in the west, collaborating with some of the biggest actors, stunt people and filmmakers in the industry.
While acknowledged as a seasoned action actor, it feels like the best is yet to come for Jaa who firmly believes his strongest work lies in front of him. Yet with career-defining credits already under his belt, it remains proof of his humble attitude and hunger to be the best he can be.
