An enjoyable Rocky-style film for anyone interested in martial arts films. For the
rest of us, Chok-Dee has
little to offer. The characterisation is superficial, the story
contrived and, at times, very muddled. Xavier Durringer certainly shows
some promise as a director, but here he seems a little too content
merely to imitate others, instead of developing his own style. Chok-Dee isn't a bad film, just
one of limited appeal.
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Film Synopsis
Ryan is a juvenile delinquent who lives in the rough suburbs of Paris.
He survives in a tough world by pushing drugs and committing minor criminal
offences. One day, his luck runs out and he ends up being arrested
and sent to prison. It is here that he comes into contact with a former
boxing champion, Jean, who introduces him to the dangerous sport of Thai
boxing. Ryan proves to be an apt pupil and, under Jean's enthusiastic
guidance, he develops not only a passion for the sport but also a considerable
aptitude. On his release from prison, Ryan jets off to Thailand with
the intention of training to become a professional boxer. It is here
that he faces his first obstacle. The training camp is officially barred
to foreigners. Such is Ryan's determination that this challenge is
soon overcome. The greater ordeal, to become a world-class champion,
lies ahead of him...
Cast: Dida Diafat (Ryan),
Bernard Giraudeau (Jean),
Florence Faivre (Kim),
Lakshantha Abenayake (Coffee),
Sombat Metanee (Wiwat),
Rit Luecha (Mr. Amom),
Jean-Pierre Léonardini (Roger),
Fariza Mimoun (Maima),
Calbo (Manu),
Jean Miez (Le gardien-chef),
Martial Odone (Un gardien),
Laurent Olmedo (Un gardien),
Kimyu Rukyindee (Kimyu),
Prawit Tueyu (Pajo),
Pisek Intrakanchit (Natpong, fils de Wiwat),
Charoenthong Kiatbanchong (Kowang),
Sangtiennoi Sorrungroj (Kaokor),
Sirimongkol Singmanassak (Sombat),
Steven Eng (Garde du corps Wiwat),
Kissada Bunjongkaew (Garde du corps Mr Amom)
Country: France
Language: French / English / Thai
Support: Color
Runtime: 105 min
The very best of the French New Wave
A wave of fresh talent in the late 1950s, early 1960s brought about a dramatic renaissance in French cinema, placing the auteur at the core of France's 7th art.
In his letters to his friends and family, Franz Kafka gives us a rich self-portrait that is surprisingly upbeat, nor the angst-ridden soul we might expect.