Gulf Kanawut and Mark Prin Turn Thailand's Most Tragic Epic, Wantong, Into the Wildest Fantasy Showdown Ever
Anyone who grew up in Thailand knows the heavy burden attached to the name Wantong. In the classic folklore epic Khun Chang Khun Phaen, her character was dragged through centuries of judgment, labelled as the ultimate symbol of indecision and infidelity.
Generations of schoolchildren read about her tragic fate at the executioner's block, framed as a cautionary tale about a woman caught between two powerful men. When the new big-budget film Amazing Wantong, also known internationally as In The Name of Love, drops in theaters this September, it tosses those dusty ancient judgments straight out the window. The movie reimagines the entire legend through an inventive, fast-paced fantasy adventure where a sharp-witted woman from the year 2000 wakes up trapped inside Wantong's body, fully determined to rewrite her destiny and keep her head firmly on her shoulders.
Behind this ambitious project is a fascinating cross-border creative venture. The movie marks the inaugural release from Black Dragon Entertainment, a Bangkok-based production house established by veteran film producer Julien Jong. Jong spent years working at the highest levels of the South Korean film industry, contributing to landmark international hits such as Bong Joon-ho's Parasite, Snowpiercer, The Host, and the record-breaking epic The Admiral: Roaring Currents. Rather than remaining in the comfortable machinery of Seoul cinema, Jong relocated to Bangkok with a distinct mission: establish a studio that pairs high-level production craftsmanship with the vibrant storytelling of Thai pop culture. Amazing Wantong serves as the studio's major statement piece, blending period spectacle with modern blockbuster energy.
To shape this energetic vision, Jong handed the director's chair to Mook-Piyakan Butprasert. Audiences already love Mook-Piyakan for her sharp comedic timing and emotional honesty, having directed the smash hit romantic comedy Long Live Love! as well as the beloved long-running sitcom True Love Next Door. She specializes in messy, relatable relationships, giving her the ideal sensibility to turn a stiff historical tragedy into a spirited, humorous battle of wits. Working from the premise inspired by the novel Ratirot Mai Nam Pha, she crafts a world where modern common sense collides head-on with archaic royal court rules, mystical blade fights, and extravagant romantic declarations.
Carrying the central role of Phimmada and Wantong is Ink Waruntorn Paonil, whose casting feels like a dream come true for both music lovers and cinema fans. Ink originally entered the entertainment world as a teenage pop singer in the girl group Chilli White Choc before carving out a solo music career that earned her the crown of Thailand's synth-pop royalty. Songs like "Insomnia," "Glad," and "Eyes Don't Lie" made her a household name, while her acting work in indie gems like Snap and the psychological thriller Faces of Anne proved her range as a dramatic actress. Ink brings an effortless charm and approachable warmth to the screen. Placing her in the center of ancient court drama allows her to play a modern woman who refuses to be intimidated by patriarchal power. Fans get to see her flex her comedic instincts and fiery resilience, reacting to ancient customs with the exact sarcasm and clever survival tactics that modern viewers would use.
Facing off against her as the legendary warrior Khun Phaen is Mark Prin Suparat, an actor whose screen presence embodies traditional heroism with a playful edge. Mark spent years headlining top-rated television dramas and action features, building a reputation as one of the country's most reliable and charismatic leading men. He is famous for playing stoic fighters and irresistible romantic leads, possessing the physical presence needed for intense martial arts swordplay and the expressive warmth required for high-stakes melodrama. In folklore, Khun Phaen was celebrated for his supernatural bravery and dangerous magical charms. Casting Mark leans heavily into that reputation, allowing the film to poke fun at the character's overconfident swagger. Mark plays a soldier used to getting his way through dashing looks and magical spells, only to find himself completely baffled by a woman who sees through his charm and demands real respect.
The most dramatic shakeup in the entire production comes with the casting of Gulf Kanawut Traipipattanapong as Khun Chang. In traditional folklore adaptations, Khun Chang was routinely depicted as a clumsy, bald, and unattractive merchant whose only redeeming quality was his massive fortune. The filmmakers threw that ancient trope out entirely by handing the role to Gulf, a global favorite known for his striking looks, expressive eyes, and massive international fanbase following his breakout in TharnType: The Series and major roles in projects like Buaphan Fan Yap and Duangjai Dhevaprom.
Reimagining Khun Chang as an attractive, emotionally complex suitor completely transforms the central conflict. Gulf portrays him as a deeply dedicated, tender-hearted nobleman whose fierce loyalty makes him a genuine contender for Wantong's heart. Fans of Gulf will see him bring immense emotional depth to a historically misunderstood character, turning the ancient rivalry into a thrilling and unpredictable romantic contest.
The supporting cast adds vibrant energy to the historical chaos, led by Primmy Viparvee Patnasiri in the role of Saithong. Primmy has emerged as one of the most distinctive young talents in Thai media, known for her sharp indie sensibilities and stylish screen presence. As Saithong, Wantong's loyal confidante and sister figure, Primmy serves as the ultimate sounding board for the time-traveling heroine's wild modern schemes. Alongside her, Foei Patara Eksangkul steps into the role of Chanson, bringing his signature quick wit, effortless swagger, and colorful personality to round out the chaotic world around the palace.
The visual style of the film embraces full fantasy spectacle, featuring elaborate period costuming, lush production design, and dynamic action choreography crafted to match the ambitious standards Julien Jong brought over from his Korean studio days.
When the first promotional previews surfaced online, the project instantly surged to the top of social media trends across Thailand and Southeast Asia. Viewers quickly realized that this movie is built as a joyful, high-energy cinematic celebration. By giving iconic stars the freedom to reinvent classic figures with fresh warmth and humor, Amazing Wantong promises to deliver the ultimate crowd-pleasing theater experience when it arrives on big screens this September.
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