king neresuan 6
2015 review number 60:
King Neresuan 6: (War/Drama): 60 out of 100: Let me start this review by saying that I haven't seen the first five movies in this series. If it wasn't for my wife wanting to see this movie, I would not have bothered. I don't mind a bit of Thai culture and history but it's rather difficult in trying to piece together what you have missed from the first five movies.
King Neresuan was a popular king in Thailand's history. He fought off the Burmese to ensure that Siam as it was then known would be free of foreign invasion. In this latest and final instalment, there are several people who wish to seize power and the King must use all his wisdom, authority, fight and strength to retain the kingdom.
As a stand alone film, it is satisfactory. There is some overacting accompanied by grandstanding speeches. However, if you see some Thai TV programs, you will notice that this is the norm for Thai entertainment. You cannot blame the actors for sticking to what they are renowned for!
You can't go wrong when filming in ancient locations in Thailand. This film makes grand use of the temples and palaces that are available for location shooting. However, there are some scenes that appear to have these locations on blue/green screen. What is most impressive of all is the costume design. No expense has been spared in making sure that the actors are dressed exquisitely.
The battle scenes range from the mediocre to the brilliantly choreographed. Although most of the sound effects are impressive, there are some that appear to be out of synch or tinny.
This might have received a better review if I had seen the other movies. I spent most of my time trying to work out who and what the characters were referring to, which obviously suggests that they were featured in the previous movies. I'm also sure that the locals would appreciate the movie more given that it concerns their history and culture.
Starring Wanchana Sawatdee
(100 minutes)
Parental advice: Violence and adult themes
Additional scene during or after credits: No
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=gFJ9QzpCrvY (Movie trailer)
(Reviewed on Wednesday 22nd April, 2015)
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