Thankul's name change was prescient

Published on December 10, 2007

The TV host, who was born Ekachai Buranapanich, got behind the epic movie early on and his support for it didn't waver even in its darkest financial crises.

Having been infected with a passion for the project by producer Wallapa Pimthong, Thankul set out to raise funds and took a shot in the dark: He posted a message among the online chatter at Pantip.com, asking for donations.

Some money came in, and then Thankul mortgaged his house to secure even more cash. That was when he really learned how expensive filmmaking can be - the dough for his house was spent within a month.

Thankul might have been forgiven for keeping his distance after that, but on the contrary, he started funnelling his income from TV emceeing into the movie. He was living pretty modestly, too, driving an old pickup truck, for example.

Finally the film was finished and the premiere was scheduled. Those who were there might have noticed Thankul - he was the guy in the frayed jacket with no shoes.

Nah, we're kidding about that, and pleased to report, rather, that word of Thankul's readiness to commit to a project has spread and he's been getting more and more job offers. People like hiring guys who are dedicated and come with guaranteed returns. Thailand could use more folks like Thankul.