What Is The Protector (2005) About?
“The Protector,” also known as “Tom-Yum-Goong,” is a 2005 Thai martial arts film directed by Prachya Pinkaew. The story revolves around Kham, a young man from a rural Thai village who embarks on a perilous journey to rescue his beloved elephant, Khon, which has been stolen by a criminal syndicate. As Kham travels to the bustling streets of Sydney, Australia, he faces numerous adversaries and engages in intense martial arts battles to reclaim his treasured elephant and uphold his family’s honor. Along the way, Kham uncovers a web of corruption and crime, leading to a climactic showdown with the powerful crime lord responsible for Khon’s abduction. The film is renowned for its breathtaking action sequences, showcasing Tony Jaa’s exceptional martial arts skills, and its exploration of themes such as loyalty, justice, and the bond between humans and animals.
| Title | Tom Yum Goong / The Protector (US) / Warrior King (UK) / Revenge of the Warrior (GER) / Thai Dragon (ESP) / Honor of the Dragon (RUS) |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 2005 |
| Director | Prachya Pinkaew |
| Lead Actor | Tony Jaa |
| Genre | Action, Martial Arts, Adventure |
| Plot Summary | A young man named Kham journeys from rural Thailand to Sydney, Australia, to rescue his stolen elephant, Khon, facing off against a criminal syndicate and engaging in intense martial arts battles along the way. |
| Key Features | Breathtaking action sequences, showcasing Tony Jaa’s martial arts skills; exploration of themes such as loyalty, justice, and the bond between humans and animals. |
| Reception | Generally positive reviews for action sequences and Tony Jaa’s performance, with criticism directed towards the thin plot and lack of character development. |
| Box Office Gross | $33.1 million worldwide |
What Is the Plot of the Movie?
Kham, the last guardian in a long line devoted to protecting Thailand’s war elephants, nurtures a deep bond with Por Yai and Kohrn, the elephants he cares for. During the Songkran festival, the animals are stolen by poachers aided by Mr. Suthep, a local MP. In pursuit, Kham confronts the poachers and retrieves the elephants.
However, the elephants end up in the possession of Johnny, a Vietnamese gangster operating from Tom Yum Goong Otob, a Thai restaurant in Sydney, Australia. Kham arrives in Sydney, where he is mistakenly arrested by police officers Mark and Rick. Upon spotting Johnny at the restaurant, Kham’s determination to confront him is thwarted by the officers. Escaping the police, Kham engages in a series of intense battles with Johnny’s henchmen.
Coercing a henchman to reveal Johnny’s hideout, Kham interrupts a drug deal and faces off against extreme sports enthusiasts summoned by Johnny. Exhausted from the encounters, Kham finds refuge with Pla, a woman he met earlier. Meanwhile, Mark and Rick are reassigned to security duty, where they witness a murder orchestrated by Inspector Vincent.
Vincent kills Rick and frames Mark for the murder, resulting in Mark’s capture. With Pla’s assistance, Kham infiltrates Tom Yum Goong Otob, engaging in a fierce battle to reach the dining hall where Johnny taunts him with Kohrn’s bell. Enraged, Kham fights his way through Johnny’s men, discovering a storage area filled with exotic animals destined for slaughter.
Kham frees Mark and Kohrn just before the police arrive, forcing them into hiding at a Buddhist monastery. However, Vincent sets the monastery ablaze, prompting Mark and Kham to return to protect its inhabitants. Confronted by assassins hired by Madame Rose, Kham battles fiercely, aided by Mark’s arrival.
Mark confronts Vincent, who is exposed as the mastermind behind the police commissioner’s murder. Meanwhile, Kham interrupts Madame Rose’s press conference, engaging her gangsters in combat. Discovering Por Yai’s skeleton adorned with jewels, Kham unleashes his fury upon Madame Rose’s men, using improvised weapons to defeat them.
In a climactic showdown, Kham overcomes T.K. and Madame Rose’s henchmen, preventing her escape. Ultimately, Kham is reunited with Kohrn, and Mark is cleared of wrongdoing by Inspector Lamond.
Reasons to Watch It
“The Protector” promises viewers an unforgettable experience with Tony Jaa’s mesmerizing martial arts prowess showcased in electrifying fight sequences. Set against a backdrop of cultural exploration and emotional depth, the film delivers intense action and a unique storyline centered around the bond between a man and his elephant, making it a must-watch for fans of martial arts and adventure.
- Tony Jaa’s Martial Arts Mastery:
- Tony Jaa’s breathtaking martial arts skills are on full display throughout the film, showcasing his agility, speed, and precision in a series of electrifying fight sequences.
- Unique Storyline:
- The film offers a unique storyline centered around the bond between a man and his elephant, blending elements of action, adventure, and drama set against the backdrop of Thailand and Sydney, Australia.
- Intense Action:
- “The Protector” is packed with intense action scenes, featuring elaborate choreography and stunts that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
- Cultural Exploration:
- Through its portrayal of Thai customs, traditions, and the importance of protecting cultural heritage, the film offers viewers a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Thailand.
- Emotional Depth:
- Beyond the action-packed sequences, the film also explores themes of loyalty, honor, and the bond between humans and animals, adding depth and resonance to the story.
- Visually Stunning:
- With its vibrant cinematography and breathtaking scenery, “The Protector” delivers a visually captivating experience that immerses viewers in its world.
Overall, “The Protector” offers a thrilling and immersive cinematic experience that will appeal to fans of martial arts films, action-packed adventures, and stories with heart and soul.
Is the Movie a Real or Fictional Story?
“The Protector” (2005) is a fictional story. While it incorporates elements of Thai culture, martial arts, and action, the specific events and characters portrayed in the film are created for entertainment purposes and are not based on real-life events or individuals.
Is It Critically Panned or Acclaimed?
“The Protector” (2005) received mixed to positive reviews from critics. While some praised the film for its intense action sequences, stunning visuals, and Tony Jaa’s martial arts skills, others criticized it for its thin plot and lack of character development. Overall, it did not achieve widespread critical acclaim but found an audience among fans of martial arts films and action-packed adventures.
| Aspect | Evaluation |
|---|---|
| Action Choreography | Praiseworthy; showcases Tony Jaa’s impressive athleticism and skills in dynamic fight sequences. |
| Plot | Simplistic and predictable storyline revolving around the theft of an elephant; lacks depth and originality. |
| Character Development | Thinly developed characters with little depth or complexity beyond archetypal roles; lacks nuanced characterization. |
| Pacing | Uneven pacing with extended periods of action interspersed with slower, less engaging scenes. |
| Violence | Relies on gratuitous violence, which may alienate some viewers seeking a more nuanced narrative. |
| Cultural Portrayal | Presents a somewhat stereotypical view of Thai culture, focusing primarily on martial arts traditions. |
| Western Depiction | Depiction of Western characters and settings, particularly in Australia, can feel clichéd and exaggerated. |
| Overall | Delivers on adrenaline-fueled action and showcases Tony Jaa’s talents but falls short in storytelling depth and character development. Entertaining for martial arts fans, but lacks substance for broader audiences. |
What Does the Movie Explore?
“The Protector” (2005) primarily explores themes related to loyalty, determination, and the bond between humans and animals. At its core, the movie delves into the journey of Kham, a young Thai warrior, as he embarks on a perilous quest to rescue his beloved elephant, Khon, who has been stolen and taken to Sydney, Australia.
- Loyalty and Determination:
- Kham’s unwavering loyalty to his elephant is a central theme of the film. Despite facing numerous obstacles and adversaries, he is determined to do whatever it takes to rescue Khon and bring him back home. This loyalty drives Kham to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges, showcasing the power of determination and perseverance.
- Connection with Animals:
- “The Protector” highlights the strong bond between humans and animals, particularly the deep connection between Kham and Khon. The elephant represents more than just a prized possession to Kham; it symbolizes his heritage, identity, and sense of belonging. The film explores the emotional depth of this bond and the lengths to which Kham is willing to go to protect his companion.
- Cultural Identity:
- Through its portrayal of Thai culture and martial arts traditions, the movie touches upon themes of cultural identity and heritage. Kham’s journey takes him from the streets of Thailand to the urban landscape of Sydney, showcasing the clash between traditional values and modernity. The film also incorporates elements of Thai folklore and spirituality, adding depth to its exploration of cultural identity.
- Justice and Revenge:
- As Kham navigates the criminal underworld in his quest to rescue Khon, the film raises questions about justice and revenge. Kham’s pursuit of those responsible for the theft of his elephant blurs the lines between righteous vengeance and moral ambiguity. The film explores the consequences of violence and the complexities of seeking justice in a world where right and wrong are not always clear-cut.
Overall, “The Protector” uses its action-packed narrative to explore themes of loyalty, determination, cultural identity, and the bond between humans and animals, offering audiences a thrilling and emotionally resonant cinematic experience.
Memorable Moments in the Movie
“The Protector” (2005) features several memorable moments that have left a lasting impression on audiences. Here are some of the standout scenes:
- Elephant Rescue Sequence:
- One of the most iconic scenes in the film is the sequence in which Kham infiltrates a warehouse to rescue his beloved elephant, Khon. This action-packed sequence showcases Tony Jaa’s incredible athleticism and martial arts skills as he takes on a multitude of adversaries to reach his goal. The intensity of the fight choreography and the emotional stakes of the rescue mission make this scene a highlight of the film.
- Single-Take Staircase Fight:
- Perhaps the most famous scene in “The Protector” is the breathtaking single-take staircase fight sequence. In this visually stunning scene, Tony Jaa’s character ascends a multi-story building, battling waves of opponents on each level without any visible cuts or edits. The seamless choreography and relentless energy of the fight make it a standout moment in martial arts cinema.
- Elephant vs. Rhino:
- Another memorable moment occurs during the climax of the film when Kham faces off against a villain who controls a charging rhinoceros. In a display of courage and resourcefulness, Kham uses his martial arts skills to defend himself and his elephant companion against the powerful beast, resulting in a thrilling and action-packed showdown.
- Tuk-Tuk Chase:
- The film also features an exhilarating chase sequence involving a tuk-tuk (a motorized rickshaw) through the crowded streets of Bangkok. This high-speed pursuit showcases the film’s kinetic energy and dynamic cinematography, as Kham and his allies navigate through traffic and obstacles while being pursued by their enemies.
- Climactic Showdown:
- The final showdown between Kham and the main antagonist takes place atop a skyscraper, providing a dramatic backdrop for their epic confrontation. The intense hand-to-hand combat and breathtaking stunts elevate the tension of the climactic battle, culminating in a satisfying conclusion to Kham’s quest for justice and redemption.
These memorable moments contribute to the overall excitement and impact of “The Protector,” solidifying its status as a standout entry in the martial arts action genre.
Streaming Platforms to Watch the Movie From
“The Protector” (2005) may be available for streaming on various platforms depending on your region. Here are some potential options:
- Amazon Prime Video:
- Amazon Prime often offers a selection of movies for streaming, and “The Protector” may be available in certain regions as part of their catalog.
- Netflix:
- Netflix occasionally includes martial arts films in its library, and “The Protector” could potentially be available for streaming on Netflix depending on your location.
- Hulu:
- Hulu also features a variety of movies, including action and martial arts films. “The Protector” may be available for streaming on Hulu in certain regions.
- HBO Max:
- HBO Max offers a diverse range of movies, and it’s possible that “The Protector” may be included in their streaming library in some regions.
- Disney+ (Star in select regions):
- In regions where Disney+ includes the Star brand, which offers more mature content, “The Protector” may be available for streaming.
- YouTube Movies/Google Play Movies:
- You can often rent or purchase digital copies of movies, including “The Protector,” from platforms like YouTube Movies or Google Play Movies.
- iTunes/Apple TV:
- Similar to YouTube and Google Play, you may be able to rent or purchase digital copies of “The Protector” from the iTunes Store or Apple TV app.
- Vudu:
- Vudu is another platform where you can rent or purchase digital copies of movies, including “The Protector.”
Please note that availability may vary based on your location, and licensing agreements can change over time. It’s a good idea to check each platform individually or use a streaming search engine to see where “The Protector” is currently available for streaming in your region.
