Sweet sequel

Tukky joins a colourful comedy

By Tatat Bunnag
Photographs courtesy
by Sahamongkol Film International

After the unexpected success of his first comedy-drama film, Panya Reanu, director Bin Banluerit didn't waste time coming up with the sequel, Panya Reanu 2.

The new film continues the sweet and sentimental childhood story set in a poor Issan village, with a focus on the cute friendship between Panya and Reanu and their traditional morlam band.

Like the first film, Panya Reanu 2 stars 11-year-old rising actress Suthida Hongsa (Nam-khing) as Reanu, a precocious and chubby girl who is very fond of the band's lead singer, Panya (Supachai Polrassami).

The movie also features Thailand's highest-paid female comedian, 32-year-old Butrprom (Tukky), who plays the part of Reanu's new friend who helps her to win Panya's heart.

Student Weekly recently caught up with Tukky and Nam-khing to hear all about the making of Panya Reanu 2, due to hit cinemas on January 26.

Student Weekly: Nam-khing, how did it feel to act in another Panya Reanu movie?

Nam-khing: It felt really good. I didn't know that the first movie would receive so much recognition. We were all surprised and happy when the director told us to get ready to make Panya Reanu 2.

Student Weekly: Tukky, why did you decide to take on this particular role?

Tukky: I actually requested to be in the movie. I cried when I saw the first movie at the cinema. It was such a sweet and sentimental film. The movie and a character of Reanu reminded me of my childhood in Issan. I knew right away that if they made a sequel, I wanted to be a part of it.

Student Weekly: Music plays a big part in this movie. How many songs did you guys actually get to sing?

Nam-khing: I sang about three songs altogether. My favourite was one that I sang with Tukky called "Ga La Mung."

Tukky: That song's in a scene where we're doing laundry and singing together. It's a fun song and I'm sure that people will love it.

Student Weekly: Nam-khing, did you enjoy working with Tukky?

Nam-khing: Tukky is my all-time favourite actress. I've seen most of the movies she's been in. I was shocked when I found out that Tukky would be working with us on Panya Reanu 2, and I was too shy to talk to her at first. But she was so kind during the shoot and she taught me a lot. We've become really good friends now.

Student Weekly: Tukky, what good advice did you give the young star?

Tukky: I'm really close with Nam-khing and her family now. Nam-khing is becoming a popular child actress. She has her own fans now, so I always remind her not to forget who we are and where we come from. She shouldn't forget her roots, and she should always try to do her best at work and at school.

Student Weekly: What makes Panya Reanu 2 stand out from other similar comedies?

Tukky: The script is great and the cinematography is absolutely beautiful. There are lots of pretty scenes with Issan villages, rice fields, meadows and buffalos. If you're interested in traditional Issan life and music, you won't be disappointed with this film.