Details about a Netflix series revisiting last year’s Tham Luang cave rescue saga and a deal to award its exclusive rights to an entertainment multinational were announced this afternoon in Bangkok.
All 12 boys and the coach rescued from the northern Thai cave appeared alongside representatives from the Thai government, Netflix and SK Global Entertainment on Tuesday afternoon at the Culture Ministry to confirm the series, which they said will be helmed by Crazy Rich Asians director Jon M. Chu alongside Thai director Nattawut “Baz” Poonpiriya of Bad Genius fame.
In early March, a government spokesman announced that a Netflix Original series would be made about the boys’ ordeal and the international effort to bring them out safely. That’s when Lt. Gen. Werachon Sukondhapatipak also said all of the rights and access would be locked down with SK Global holding the key.
Lt. Gen. Werachon said the 13 Wild Boars would earn about 3 million baht each from the production, with some money going to organizations and foundations who were involved in the rescue operation.
A number of productions, including a National Geographic documentary, have set out to tell the story, often running into problems with access along the way.
One feature-length film, expected the be the first out of the gate, is already headed toward audiences. De Warrenne Pictures is currently in post-production on Nang Non (The Cave). The domestic production, featuring a number of people directly involved in the rescue effort and shot on location, is being made by Irish-Thai director Tom Waller.
Reached for comment, Waller said he’s glad the footballers will be involved in the project – but isn’t sweating the competition.
“I’m delighted that the boys and their coach will have a chance to tell their side of the story,” he said. “My film focuses on the unsung heroes, and the volunteer spirit of the rescue which brought the whole world together.”
Update: This story has been updated with information about the announcement made and a quote from director Tom Waller.
