Boys rescued from Thai cave sign Netflix deal

Bangkok: The dramatic rescue of the “Wild Boars” football players and their coach from a cave in northern Thailand last year is coming to Netflix.

Netflix and SK Global Entertainment were granted the rights to tell the story by 13 Thumluang Company Limited, a company established by the 12 boys and their coach.

The true story of the cave rescue will be directed by 'Crazy Rich Asians' director Jon M. Chu and Nattawut “Baz” Poonpiriya.

Netflix’s Director of International Originals Erika North said the company was immensely proud to be able to support the re-telling of the incredible story of the Tham Luang cave rescue.

“The story combines so many unique local and universal themes which connected people from all walks of life from all around the world," she said told members of the press.

“Thailand is a very important market for Netflix and we are looking forward to bringing this inspiring local, but globally resonant, story to life."

North was joined at a signing ceremony by the spokesperson of the Committee for the Tham Luang Cave Mission Gen Werachon Sukondhapatipak, President of International Productions at SK Global Entertainment Michael Hogan, coach Ekapol Chantawong and the 12 young footballers.

On 23 June last year, the Wild Boars players, aged between 11 and 16 alongside their coach Ekapol were trapped while exploring the Tham Luang cave complex near Chiang Mai after heavy rain flooded the tunnels.

In a 17-day rescue effort that captivated the world, locals, experts, and volunteers all worked together to free the entire team.

Ekapol said they were grateful and excited to share the rescue story with the world.

“This is an opportunity to thank the people and organisations in Thailand and around the world who came together to rescue us by re-telling our story," he said.

“We look forward to working with all involved parties to ensure our story is told accurately,” he said.

Meanwhile, Michael said the project would not be released this year.

“It’s too early to disclose who will be in the show. Give us some time, we will announce later,” he said.