Aside from the tragic loss of ex-Thai Navy Seal diver Saman Gunan, the rescue of all those soccer boys and their coach was a happy success. It astounds me how alone and forgotten those people must have felt in a big cave like that before they knew rescue was on the way. I wonder if they were aware of the rapid media snowball their plight was causing on the outside, with the story spreading like wildfire through the internet until even farmers in Tasmania were eagerly following the saga.

So, it only stands to reason that Hollywood is keen to sink its glittery fangs into this heroic tale of human nature and caring for others in the face of adversity. I mean, how often do you get to make a true story film that showcases humans in dire situations, needing assistance? Off the top of my head, the few that spring to mind are 127 Hours, Everest, The Impossible, The 33, the list goes on. And these stories make successful films! It’s disaster/survival porn at it’s finest. There’s nothing more exciting than watching the harrowing experience of someone who, against all odds, makes it through.

Ivanhoe Pictures has been selected by the Thai Navy and the Thai government to create the film, with the director to be John M Chu. Chu tweeted “I refuse to let Hollywood #whitewashout the Thai Cave rescue story!”, so it looks like we’re in for a decent film. Chu added, “There’s a beautiful story about human beings saving other human beings.”

I can’t help but wonder what the family of Saman Gunan will have to say. After all ….. #toosoon?

Love, Akika xoxoxoxo