Review of Ong Bak 2 (2008) by Keenan S — 31 Dec 2013

I have not seen the first Ong Bak, or the third film, but I must say that I enjoyed the action spectacle that is Ong Bak 2. This film succeeds quite well as being an action spectacle thanks to the awesome fight scenes, stylish and beautiful visuals, solid direction from Tony Jaa, and solid acting for the most part.

However, this film does suffer in the storytelling department because the plot feels rather tired and thin in comparison to the beautiful spectacle the film is a whole. Sometimes, the story even gets in the way of the film, and I couldn't help but wonder if this was supposed to be a longer film because it feels like parts of it are missing (No, this is not due to the fact that it's a sequel.

This is actually a prequel, so it has less of an excuse for plot issues), because there are all sorts of random flashback scenes that could use more explanation. I wish it had been a longer film, that way the story could have been fleshed out a lot more.

Despite its flaws in the storytelling department, it's hard to fault Ong Bak 2 too much because it still works quite well as an action film because the action is exciting and it's also strikingly beautiful to look at as well.

I had a lot of fun, but it definitely needed more polish. However, I am now intrigued to see the other Ong Bak films.