The Art of Muaythai is a 13-minute documentary made in Thailand and directed by Kullachat Jitcajonwanich. The film brings the tradition and contemporary life of Muay Thai, a martial art deeply rooted in Thai culture, to the screen through master Chinawut “Woody” Sirisompan, now 73 years old.
The film retraces Sirisompan's role as organiser of the 7th Martial Arts Festival in Thailand, an international event attended by more than 900 athletes from 54 countries. The initiative offered a comprehensive overview of the different forms of Muay Thai: from youth and women's competitions to amateur and professional bouts with protective equipment, and demonstrations of the ancient martial tradition.
The protagonist, Sirisompan, appears in the documentary in his real role as a master and sporting promoter, offering a direct, authentic portrait of the world of Muay Thai. Images of training, competitions and events convey the commitment, passion and cultural value of this discipline, showing how sport becomes a tool for education, growth and sharing among generations and nations.
The project grew out of the collaboration of Siam Pandora Company Limited and a production team already active in Thai cinema, with experience in earlier films about Muay Thai and beyond. The producers also include Triphet Rookachat, previously executive producer of The Rocket, an award-winning film at the 2013 Berlinale and selected for Sundance 2014.
The documentary was completed on 29 June 2025 and is a significant testament to how traditional Thai sport can be told through contemporary cinematic language.
Film Information
Title: The Art of Muaythai
Original title: The Art of Muaythai
Direction: Kullachat Jitcajonwanich
Production: Siam Pandora Company Limited, Triphet Rookachat, Sujinthara Tansutat, Apatsanun Suriseehasathian
Country: Thailand
Language: Thai
Running time: 13 minutes
Genre: Documentary
Sport featured: Muay Thai
Main subject(s): Chinawut “Woody” Sirisompan
Completion date: 29 June 2025
Premiere: [Not specified]
Distributor: [Not specified]
Shooting format: Blackmagic, 16:9, colour
Director's first film: No
Student project: No