Ong Bak 2 (2008)

"Power is terrifying"

Tony Jaa directed the production plagued Ong Bak 2 as well as starred in and choreographed the fights. The plot was the standard Hong Kong kung fu plot only with more knees, elbows…and elephants. Ong Bak 2 & 3 were not related to Ong Bak the original except as loose prequels set in the 15th century.

Tien’s noble family and retainers are all murdered by the treacherous Lord Rajasena. Though he is saved by a loyal bodyguard, he ends up in the hands of slave dealers. Luck cast a glance his way and he was saved by Chernang, the Outlaw King of Garuda Wing Cliff. Tien learns different styles of fighting and uses of weaponry as he grows up, eventually becoming the second most powerful man in the clan. When he decides he is ready to avenge his family, before he could say “My name is Tien, you killed my father, prepare to die,” Tien hit the road to eliminate Rajasena.

This is one of my favorite Tony Jaa films. The revenge story was a standard which actually served the film well. It was a tried-and-true structure to showcase numerous fights and the requisite training montage. Those fights were insanely well-choreographed with Tony showing off different styles, high flying gymnastics, and a proficiency with weapons. With most strikes going after knees, elbows, and necks, his opponents did not last long. Until he was vastly outnumbered that is.

Tony used Thailand’s stunning scenery as a backdrop for human beings’ ugliness and cruelty. The acting was better than in most of his movies which might be one of the reasons I liked this film more. The biggest complaint I have was the overuse of long flashbacks which tended to halt the pacing.

Tony Jaa in action is a pleasure to watch. What his body can do is astonishing. I always feel like I gush too much over his martial arts and stunts abilities, but they were amazing. And in this film the story didn’t get in the way of his high flying. The ending was abrupt and a cliffhanger, here’s hoping Ong Bak 3 capitalizes on this film.

13 March 2025

Spoiler: 3 failed miserably unfortunately

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