In 2007, the world witnessed a cinematic revolution from Thailand, the land of stunning beaches and Muay Thai warriors, with the film 'Chocolate'. Directed by Prachya Pinkaew, best known for the exhilarating 'Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior', this action-packed gem features Yanin “Jeeja” Vismitananda in her breakout role as Zen, a young autistic girl with a rather unique set of skills. Cue the eye rolls from the liberal crowd who can't handle a powerful narrative without a politically charged agenda. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Bangkok’s bustling streets, Chocolate is an action film that nods to Jackie Chan’s choreography while delivering something fresh and deeply interwoven with culture and emotion—but stripping out the over-politicization is where it truly shines.
Let's talk about the grit of Chocolate. The plot is simple enough—our heroine Zen embarks on a journey after her mother becomes seriously ill. Her mother’s mysterious past collides with Zen’s present, leading to debt collectors and complications. Like any true martial arts sensation, Zen's ability to mimic and perform impressive fight choreography trumps any politically motivated storyline you might find in a Western box-office hit. It's a joyous reminder that not everything needs a heavy-handed message about progressive social issues.
Vismitananda’s performance is a testament to physical dedication and raw talent. She performs her stunts—a breath of fresh air in this CGI-laden world—and does so with an intensity that captures what our movies today often miss: authenticity. It's as if Hollywood forgot the suspense and thrills of seeing someone undertake an action sequence rather than digitally create it. If only the woke brigade could see that authenticity and dedication are worth more than over-edited spectacle.
Watching Zen navigate her world brings a unique focus to her autism, portrayed genuinely and respectfully, without the Hollywood preachiness we've come to expect. For once, a movie shows disability as a strength without lecturing us about ableism. The focus remains on the character's journey, skill, and resourcefulness—a modern marvel that puts substance over surface-level virtue signaling.
The action sequences are relentless, making Chocolate stand out in a genre often dominated by male stars. Zen doesn't just throw kicks; each fight is meticulously choreographed, seamlessly blending her character's unique perspective into her combat style. Here lies the delicious irony: a film that's ostensibly about an underdog breaking through the ranks of patriarchy does so without decrying it every five minutes.
Then there's the cultural aspect. Chocolate delves into Thailand’s nuances without turning it into a political statement. Shouldn't we celebrate when a film respects the richness of international settings without shoehorning in an agenda? When Vismitananda magnificently attacks her foes with the agility of a panther, we're reminded that vibrancy and artistry can transcend the dull hues-politics imposes.
No doubt, Vismitananda's impressive debut led the film into the good graces of action-film lovers worldwide. The action choreography is reminiscent of early Jackie Chan films—a breath of fresh air compared to what passes as action in mainstream cinema today. A film that serves the pure adrenaline of action deserves applause for not kneeling at the altar of modern political correctness.
Chocolate is a film that cleverly combines action, drama, and culture without the need for overt socio-political commentary. Vismitananda offers a performance unmarred by the convolutions of today's cinematic social narratives. Her character is celebrated for her ability, demonstrating that cinema can inspire without dividing. Many might find this idea upsetting, but why not be entertained by skill and heart over a lecture?
So, dear readers, if you’re after a film that whisks you away on a tidal wave of martial arts excellence while skillfully leapfrogging over modern Hollywood's ideological swamp, 'Chocolate' is the film you didn’t know you needed. Embrace the power of a character who wins you over with kicks and wit, not words steeped in agenda. Go ahead, take that leap. Watch 'Chocolate', savor it, and experience a rush that reminds us of a time when films made us feel rather than think politically.