Panna Rittikrai

Panna Rittikrai, originally named Krittiya Lardphanna (February 17, 1961 – July 20, 2014), was a prominent Thai filmmaker and martial arts expert renowned for his contributions as a choreographer, director, screenwriter, and actor. As the leader of the Muay Thai Stunt Team, previously recognized as the P.P.N. Stunt Team, he left an indelible mark on the action film genre in Thailand and beyond.

Rittikrai gained widespread acclaim for his role as a martial arts choreographer on the groundbreaking 2003 film "Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior," which showcased the traditional Thai martial art of Muay Thai and catapulted Tony Jaa to international fame. He followed this success with the 2005 film "Tom-Yum-Goong," released as "The Protector" in the United States, where he again collaborated with Jaa, further elevating the profile of Thai action cinema.

In addition to his work in film, Rittikrai was instrumental in mentoring young talents in the industry, helping to shape the next generation of martial arts performers. His innovative choreography and dedication to the craft earned him recognition and respect both in Thailand and globally. Panna Rittikrai’s legacy continues to influence martial arts filmmaking, making him a pivotal figure in the world of action cinema.