The Protector / Tom yum goong

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: August 11, 2005 (Hong Kong & Thailand) / September 8, 2006 (USA)

DVD Release Date: January 16, 2007

Plot 411: When his way of life is threatened, Kham must go to Australia a get back his stolen elepahnt.

Review: All action, all the time. This was one butt kicking after another, and you'll especially love the movie if you're into martial arts. Americans, and the western world in general, don't often get to see this type of martial arts - Thai martial arts. It just looks so different from the kung fu, karate and judo we've grown up with. This stuff is faster and uses unusual parts of the body as weapons. What was inovated about this movie is that they used every possible weapon against Tony Jaa (Kahm) and he still managed to whoop ass. My favorite enemy was the gang of X Games wanna-bes. Yes, you got that right! They used motorcross bikes against the guy. The plot was ok but really, who needs a plot if you've got Jaa constantly flying across the screen?

Watch It: For a dive into the deep end of muay thai. Your heart will be racing with excitement.

Skip It: If you're a stickler for the classic kung fu flicks. The action in this film is all about innovation and the modern world, despite the fact that the main character is actually fighting to save his culture and history.

Trailer: