This Girl Is Badass

This Girl Is Badass is a hilarious yet intense Thai action-comedy movie directed by Petchtai Wongkamlao, also known as Mum Jokmok, a renowned comic actor in Thailand. The film stars JeeJa Yanin along with Petchtai Wongkamlao himself and Akom Preedakul among other notable actors. Yanin, the young martial arts starlet, brings her formidable Muay Thai skills to the table, making the action sequences an absolute delight for martial arts enthusiasts.

The story revolves around Jukkalan (played by JeeJa Yanin), an introverted bike messenger who finds herself neck-deep in trouble due to her familial ties to the underworld. Landlocked in the midst of feuding gangsters, corrupt politicians and police officers, Jukkalan is an ordinary girl with extraordinary circumstances. The film is peppered with comic-relief around these complex circumstances, thanks to the genius of Petchtai Wongkamlao.

JeeJa Yanin, well known for her performances in martial arts films, gives a captivating performance. Her character Jukkalan retains her innocence and timidness, contrasting sharply with the violent world she comes from. However, whenever she is pushed into a corner, her killer instincts are activated, transforming into a Muay Thai beast setting the screen ablaze with thrilling fight scenes.

Petchtai Wongkamlao shines both in front of and behind the camera. As a director, he skillfully mixes action with comedy, creating a unique movie experience. His on-screen character, a gray-shaded cop, adds another flavor to the story's sporadic humor. Akom Preedakul is another prominent actor who has a significant role in the movie. His portrayal of a gang leader adds depth to his character and furthers the thrilling storyline.

The movie excels in the visual delivery of Muay Thai action sequences that are expertly choreographed. The violence is not spared, making the narrative more intense and allowing the audience to feel the sense of danger that surrounds the protagonist. Still, the violence never feels too gory or gratuitous, instead serving the story perfectly. An exemplary blend of comedy and martial arts set this movie apart in the huge sea of action movies.

The cinematography and editing deserve a special mention, as they manage to keep the audience engaged through fast-paced actions scenes as well as slower, dialogue-driven scenes. Not to mention, the humor delivered through funny dialogues and situations blends perfectly with the movie’s overall dynamics. Superior shots of Thailand's landscape provide an atmospheric visual treat.

The relationships that Jukkalan maintains are endearing and human, cutting through the general fast-paced action and providing relief and new depths to her character. Her interactions with her Uncle Sawang and potential love interest provide heartwarming moments that offer a break from the adrenaline-fueled action.

Moreover, it is not just Jukkalan's combat skills that are compelling. The underdog story of an innocent girl up against the baddies of society offers a compelling narrative. The audience finds themselves cheering for the quiet girl who can pack a punch and rooting for her to eliminate the evil elements of society and bring order to her chaotic world.

Overall, This Girl Is Badass is an exciting blend of action and comedy that offers an adrenaline-fueled ride through the streets of Thailand, combined with heartwarming moments and humor that keep the audience engaged. The film strikes a balance between comic relief and intense martial arts action scenes, providing an entertaining watch. No matter if you are a fan of action, comedy, or martial arts, or if you simply enjoy a well-told story, this movie surely has something for you.