Apichatpong to rule Oscars as 1st Thai Academy member

[snoop1130]

Apichatpong to rule Oscars as 1st Thai Academy member
By Kaewta Ketbungkan, Staff Reporter



BANGKOK — Apichatpong Weerasethakul, the only Thai filmmaker to win a Palme d’Or, was named today as the first Thai member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

The Khon Kaen-born director said he learned Wednesday night he would be recognized internationally once again as one of 683 new Academy members, which means the next year’s 89th Oscars will be in his hands.

Full Story: http://www.khaosodenglish.com/life/arts/2016/06/30/apichatpong-rule-oscars-1st-thai-academy-member/


-- Khaosod English 2016-06-30

[Nearlynam]

Well one Sir!

I doubt you'll be much appreciated by the Thai bashing brigade here.

Proof that Thailand had developed so much internationally in the last few decades.

[The stuttering parrot]

Hats off!

It's a long way from Khon Kaen to Hollywood.

Anything is possible ??

[Wilsonandson]

Well one Sir!

I doubt you'll be much appreciated by the Thai bashing brigade here.

Proof that Thailand had developed so much internationally in the last few decades.

First of all Thai Visa members are all different, we don't all mouth off against Thai people and Thailand.

Yes, some people do, but it's a free country with freedom of speech and all that.

As for this Thai guy Apichatpong, being recognized as a great film maker, well, good on him. Thai's need role-models, just look at the TV and who are children supposed to look up to? Volleyball player, badminton, bmx champion, movie star who looks down on the poor, popstars that remains poor, so a film maker is something new. Dad I wanna be a film maker. About time the career paths widened for Thais.

[waldroj]

"...Citing the film ratings system and current political climate, Apichatpong decided to forego screening his latest feature at home..."

Appreciated more overseas than at home - Congratulations Khun Apichatpong (and to Suttirat Anne too).

This award (on top of his other accolades) recognises his ability to excel in a positive way - unlike other Thai's who could almost have won an Academy Award for their performances. Although they may have missed out this time, if they're given enough time they are almost certain to usurp even the current winner (too). But, I suspect that Khun Apichatpong will not be the presenter.

[Alive]

Well one Sir!

I doubt you'll be much appreciated by the Thai bashing brigade here.

Proof that Thailand had developed so much internationally in the last few decades.

Actually he 'bashes' Thailand's leaders himself. The powers that be banned his movie. There are a few stories in the news about this online if you can to search. Try the one at Asian Correspondent.

[NongKhaiKid]

Well one Sir!

I doubt you'll be much appreciated by the Thai bashing brigade here.

Proof that Thailand had developed so much internationally in the last few decades.

Straight out of the PM's handbook, you can say anything you want about LoS as long as it's positive.

[nakhonandy]

Funny really.

Makes the news but some of his films are banned here.

Incidentally before the current situation also.

So he is praised here because he is Thai but not because of his achievements that few people have seen!

Anyhow, well done to them both, great achievement.

[sanukjim]

Congratulations to Aprichatpong on being invited to the as an Academy member.He will have one of about 600 votes so how is to "Rule the Oscars" ?

[Nearlynam]

Well one Sir!

I doubt you'll be much appreciated by the Thai bashing brigade here.

Proof that Thailand had developed so much internationally in the last few decades.

First of all Thai Visa members are all different, we don't all mouth off against Thai people and Thailand.

Yes, some people do, but it's a free country with freedom of speech and all that.

As for this Thai guy Apichatpong, being recognized as a great film maker, well, good on him. Thai's need role-models, just look at the TV and who are children supposed to look up to? Volleyball player, badminton, bmx champion, movie star who looks down on the poor, popstars that remains poor, so a film maker is something new. Dad I wanna be a film maker. About time the career paths widened for Thais.

You are the epitome of a Thai-basher. The signs are written all over your racial posts.

"this Thai guy" - why not just say, "this guy"? Because you need to show he is different or inferior to you.

I work with racists like you and it gets me down. They'll come in and say things like, "this Thai guy cut me up on the road today". <deleted>, your in Thailand, no need to point out that the people are Thai!

Try integrating buddy, learn the language and get out more instead of sitting at your keyboard searching for others of your superior race.

[DrTuner]

Ok then. Never understood the Boonmee flick, but I guess they needed a few Asians.

[jayboy]

Ok then. Never understood the Boonmee flick, but I guess they needed a few Asians.

He is a world class director and I was surprised he was not already a member of the Academy.He is a very remarkable artist.

Your remark may be correct in the limited sense that the Academy is keen to diversify its membership.But it is wrong to draw the conclusion that Apichatpong only qualifies theugh some politically correct quota system.

Uncle Boonmee is not the most accessible of his movies - though I found it utterly compelling without pretending to understand all the references.