Hit the road,Theng & Nong

Television's favourite comedians and occasional movie stars, Pongsak "Theng Terdtherng" Pongsuwan and Choosak "Nong Cha Cha Cha" Iam-sook, return to the silver screen today with their directorial debut, "Theng Nong Khon Ma Ha Hia", a road movie that promises to have audiences rolling in the aisles.

The title, which literally means Theng and Nong go to meet the hia - the Chinese term for elder brother - has the two comedians playing parking valets assigned by their mafia boss (Phairoj Jaising) to deliver a valuable Chinese statue to young mafioso boss Hia See (Andy Khemphimook).

During the journey, they decide to take a side trip and what should have been a simple job turns into a major fiasco with a police chase led by Lt Namtarn (Jirada Yohara).

"The duo complement each other. One is hot-tempered, the other cautious. Their differences help them survive," says Theng.

The plot is not unlike the Hollywood comedy blockbuster "Dumb and Dumber". Theng says he liked the idea and Jim Carrey's acting, though he didn't actually understand some of the gags.

"It's essentially about two stupid guys who decide to take a trip and enjoy a couple of adventures. But the gags and the comedy are ours, are based on ideas we've been collecting for years," says Theng.

"Besides, Nong's real-life relationship with me comes across on the big screen too."

The two say they've learned from each other's mistakes and have been careful not to come up with a film that is a mere collection of comedic situations. "We've focused on the story and even though we had plenty of ideas for straight out laughs, we dropped them because they didn't relate to the plot."

They've also been careful not to create characters that too far removed from their real-life personalities.

"People expect to see us as we are on our game show. They were disappointed in 'Nong Theng Nakleng Phookhao Thong'," says Nong, referring to last year's movie from Work Point and Sahamongkol.

The duo became superstars thanks to the successful TV game show "Ching Roi Ching Laan", featuring the Sam Cha Gang of Theng, Nong and Phetthai "Mum Jokmok" Wongkhamlao.

Phetthai has already directed three blockbusters, but Theng and Nong say they have no intention of following in his footsteps.

"We're not hardcore film buffs like Mum," smiles Theng.

Theng is one of the most popular comedians in the film business after his starring role in "Luang Phee Theng" ("The Holy Man") brought in more than Bt140 million at the box office.

Nong has enjoyed more of a roller coaster ride, although his portrayal of a serious guy who devotes his life to love in Yuthlert Sippapak's "Sai Lor Fah" earned a respectable Bt75 million.

"Theng Nong Khon Ma Ha Hia" is a "clean movie", with no vulgarity or bad language.

"We wanted to make a film suitable for audiences of all ages. As a parent, I don't want my child repeating offensive words or imitating bad behaviour," says Theng.

"Theng Nong Khon Ma Ha Hia" opens in theatres today.

Parinyaporn Pajee

The Nation