🎥 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 (𝟐𝟎𝟎𝟓)

The Protector (2005) 

The Protector (also known as Tom-Yum-Goong) is a 2005 Thai martial arts action film starring Tony Jaa, directed by Prachya Pinkaew. The film follows Kham, a skilled Muay Thai fighter, who embarks on a dangerous mission to rescue his beloved elephants that have been stolen and taken to Australia. The story begins in a peaceful Thai village, where Kham and his father raise and protect their prized elephants, which are considered sacred in Thai culture. Kham is trained in Muay Thai, specifically in the ancient and powerful Muay Boran style, which has been passed down through generations to serve as a protector of the King’s elephants. However, tragedy strikes during a village festival when poachers, working for an international smuggling ring, kidnap Kham’s elephants, including his cherished adult elephant Por Yai and the young calf Korn. Devastated by the loss, Kham’s father is also injured in the attack, further fueling Kham’s rage and determination. With nothing left to lose, Kham sets out on a journey to track down the criminals responsible, leading him to Sydney, Australia, where a powerful and ruthless crime syndicate is behind the elephant trafficking.

Upon arriving in Sydney, Kham quickly learns that his mission will not be easy. The syndicate, led by the manipulative and sadistic Madame Rose, is deeply entrenched in the criminal underworld, controlling illegal animal trade and human trafficking operations. Kham crosses paths with Mark, a Thai-Australian detective who is investigating corruption within the police force and finds himself unwillingly entangled in Kham’s quest. As Kham battles his way through the city, he faces waves of formidable opponents, including a group of highly trained martial artists working for Madame Rose. One of the film’s most iconic sequences occurs in a four-minute, continuous tracking shot where Kham single-handedly takes down an entire building full of enemies, showcasing Tony Jaa’s unparalleled athleticism and fight choreography. Throughout his journey, Kham utilizes his devastating Muay Boran skills, breaking bones and dispatching foes with lightning-fast strikes, knee attacks, and elbow strikes. However, his toughest battles come when he faces Madame Rose’s top enforcers, including a massive brute named T.K. and a deadly capoeira fighter, Johnny, played by Lateef Crowder.

The climax of The Protector delivers a brutal and emotionally charged confrontation at Madame Rose’s grand auction, where Kham finally discovers his beloved elephants being held captive. The final fight sequence is a stunning showcase of Muay Boran, as Kham takes on dozens of opponents, demonstrating incredible power and agility. In the most memorable moment of the film, Kham, fueled by rage and desperation, unleashes a relentless barrage of bone-breaking moves against a group of giant bodyguards, snapping their limbs with his devastating techniques. As he reaches the main chamber, he confronts Madame Rose, who reveals her ultimate plan—to eliminate all obstacles in her path and secure absolute power within the criminal underworld. Kham, despite being injured, overcomes the odds and defeats Madame Rose and her remaining enforcers, finally reclaiming his elephants. The film concludes with Kham returning home, his mission complete, though deeply scarred by the ordeal. His journey highlights themes of loyalty, duty, and the sacred bond between humans and animals, making The Protector not only a thrilling martial arts film but also an emotional and culturally significant story.