Tony Jaa 'Bak' in business

December 04, 2008 Arguably the most anticipated Thai movie ever, Tony Jaa's "Ong Bak 2" premiered this week to thousands of filmgoers happy to get a break from the real-life political drama playing out in the streets of their capital. Back in the city, martial artists in period garb leapt to thunderous drumming outside a modern shopping mall cineplex while inside, Thailand's first international action hero deftly snuck in and out of nine theaters, avoiding paparazzi and TV cameras. Just a few months ago, it seemed destined to remain in the can after the sometimes sensational Thai press reported that Jaa had fled the set after going over budget and was hiding in a jungle temple practicing black magic.

Subscribe to the Hollywood Reporter and see the entertainment industry from its best angle: the inside looking out. Complete access to real-time news and exclusive analysis that goes behind the scenes from film to television, home video to digital media.

   Subscribe now.