BANGKOK, Thailand – Chalong Pakdeevijit, Thailand’s legendary national artist in the performing arts (film and television directing), passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on Friday, September 13, at Ramathibodi Hospital. His daughter, Boonjira Tririya (Pakdeevijit), confirmed the news and is awaiting the official cause of death. The Department of Cultural Promotion will announce the schedule for the funeral rites and prayer services once details are received from the family.
Prasop Riangngern, Director-General of the Department of Cultural Promotion, expressed condolences, acknowledging Chalong’s significant contributions to Thai cinema. In accordance with regulations, the family will receive financial support for the funeral, including 20,000 baht for ceremony expenses, 3,000 baht for funeral offerings, and up to 150,000 baht for the publication of a memorial book.
Born on March 18, 1931, in Bangkok, Chalong Pakdeevijit grew up in a family deeply involved in the film industry. He was inspired by his father, a film producer, and his uncle, a cinematographer and director. At the young age of 19, Chalong began his career as a cinematographer, working on his first film, Saen Saeb, adapted from a novel by Mai Muang Derm. Over the years, he honed his skills and became a master of film techniques, winning two consecutive Phra Surasawadi (Golden Doll) awards for outstanding cinematography with the films Poo Pichit Matjurat and La Ong Dao.
Chalong eventually transitioned into directing and producing, creating notable works like Jao Insi (starring Mitr Chaibancha and Pissamai Wilaisak), Soi Dao Sao Duen, Fon Tai Fon Nuea, Thong, Kabuankarn Phayak Rai, and Tat Liem Phet. He was instrumental in bringing Thai cinema to the international stage, collaborating with foreign actors and achieving global recognition under his directorial name, P. Chalong.
His fearless vision, attention to detail, and willingness to take risks earned him a legendary status in Thai cinema. His film Thong became iconic, representing the bold and innovative spirit of Chalong’s work. Later, he shifted to producing action dramas for television, a genre in which he continued to excel, cementing his reputation.
Over his illustrious 63-year career, Chalong directed and produced numerous films and mentored many in the industry. His contributions earned him several prestigious awards, including the “Pao Ting” award from Taiwan for Thong and the Suphannahong Golden Award for Lifetime Achievement.
He was named a National Artist in 2013 for his work in film and television production.
Chalong’s death marks the end of an era for Thailand’s film industry, with his legacy living on through his iconic action-packed films and the many filmmakers he inspired. (TNA)
