Good news for all Fast & Furious fans: Along with Jason Statham, another international action king is expected to be a part of the Fast & Furious franchise. The next installment also features Tony Jaa, the star who gained instant popularity after the release of the series of Ong Bak movies. The producers are in talks with him and should finalise the deal soon. This part of the Franchise is going to be directed by James Wan, the director of this year’s horror blockbuster, The Conjuring
Incidentally, this is first English-language movie Jaa has ever been part of. Being a Thailand-born actor, he has been acting in movies for more than two decades. The actor’s role in the movie is kept as a secret, and we do not know whether he is playing the role of the good guy or a badass. Apart from Statham and Jaa, the big news is that Ronda Rousey, the UFC champion is also expected to play a role in the movie.
Jaa had earlier quoted, “I have been a huge fan of the Fast and Furious franchise. I like the pace of the film and the manner in which it keeps the audience always interested. Humour and action are present in good doses as well. That is something I expect in any movie. I am glad to be a part of the U.S. studio production. Working with established stars like Vin Diesel and The Rock would be a great honour”. In his 19 year career, Jaa – who grew up as an elephant herder – has only been in 14 movies, but has earned widespread acclaim thanks to his performances and martial arts skills featured in the Ong Bak trilogy.
If Jaa winds up playing one of the antagonists in the film, Dom and his gang are going to have their work cut out for them.
His two-decade career has been highly eventful. Growing up as an elephant herder and being a part of only 14 movies, his performance and his belligerent skills in Ong Bak had impressed both critics and the audience, alike. Playing an antagonist would come naturally to Jaa, given his muscular and toned body. The good guys need to match him for every bit of action, if Jaa joins the bad guys.
The seventh installment of the franchise is expected to start production in September and should release sometime in July, 2014. Once the production starts, a lot of interesting news would arise and the feeling of excitement is only likely to grow.
Check out one of his best action fights scenes below: