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The legend of Suriyothai - ML Piyapas Bhirombhakdi, Sarunyoo Wongkrchang, Chatrichalerm Yukol

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Movie propaganda

Siam. 1528. A woman warrior changed the course of history.

A story of intrigue, romance and war set in a dramatic period of Thailand's history, The legend of Suriyothai is based on actual events in 16th century Thailand. The legend of Suriyothai begins during a peaceful era, but forces from both outside (Thailand's neighbour Burma to the north) and within, conspires to test the strength of the nation. Filmed at spectacular locations throughout Thailand, with a true cast of thousands, this Cecil B DeMille-sized epic chronicles the life of Suriyothai (ML Piyapas Bhirombhakdi), a beautiful young princess, who must choose between marrying her true love, a gallant young warrior named Piren (Chatchai Plengpanich), or doing her duty to wed Prince Tien (Sarunyu Wongkrachang), the son of the "second king", in a marriage arranged by their two very powerful families.

As the story unfolds, the Thai kingdom of Ayuthaya is enjoying a period of peace and prosperity, but the country's stability will be threatened by corruption and civil war. Colossal battle scenes with archers atop elephants, bare-breasted Amazon fighters armed with spears and invading Burmese legions firing cannons, are photographed on a scale not seen in the cinema for decades. Written and directed by Chatri Chalerm Yukol, a prince in the Thai royal family, the film was made with the support of Thailand's Queen Sirikit. Palace intrigues and deceptions abound, with memorable characters and plot twists: one king who takes the throne in a coup d'état is then deceived by his beautiful new wife, a former high courtesan named Srisudachan. She plots her husband's downfall, pushing her lover Worawongsa to usurp the throne, and to restore her clan, the U-Thong in its claim to power.

A band of loyalists joins Princess Suriyothai to assassinate the pretenders Srisudachan and Worawongsa, and to restore the monarchy in a daring sneak attack. Tien leaves the priesthood to become king, and to reunify Thailand. In a dramatic finale to the film, the Burmese invade Ayuthaya. Queen Suriyothai heroically rides an elephant into battle and dies in a valiant effort to save both her country and her husband's life. The life of Suriyothai has become a legend.