Jaa Appears to Deny He Disappeared

Ong-Bak 2 director Tony Jaa, who broke down at one point in a TV interview to counter allegations that he had disappeared after going drastically over-budget on the film, denied disappearing, claiming that he had gone off to ‘pursue his artistic quest’ and claimed that he had received only 117 miilion Baht (£1.76 million) from the studio.

 Jaa said, ‘I'm shocked at what happened.   I didn't receive Baht250 million. There must be a misunderstanding over the number and I have proof of all my spending.   There are so many problems. I went away to focus on the artistic angle of the film. I make this film not with the number and figures in mind, but for its artistic quality. I invest my effort in it with almost spiritual devotion.’

Jaa also expressed his intention to complete shooting of the film, which was due for release in December 2008. [ADD]

2008

Thailand: 2008