‘Bad Genius’ Director Baz Poonpirya Launches BASK Venture With Thailand’s ‘Grandma’ Studio GDH
variety.comPatrick Frater Asia Bureau Chief Nattawut ‘Baz’ Poonpiriya, the director of 2017 pan-Asian hit “Bad Genius,” has joined forces with Thailand’s leading film studio GDH559 to launch new production company BASK.
GDH, a subsidiary of the GMM group, is currently riding another wave of regional success with comedy-drama “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” breaking box office records in Southeast Asian countries including Singapore, Vietnam and The Philippines.
Earlier this week, the company unveiled a powerful production and releasing slate covering the next year. Co-headed by GDH producer, Vanridee Pongsittisak, BASK says it will work alongside top U.S.-based producers to offer a fresh perspective on Thai and Asian culture for global audiences. “My goal is to be the international voice that speaks louder,” said Poonpiriya. “With a louder and authentic voice, it means that I can speak for more people and to more people.” Pongsittisak said: “Not only will we bring a variety of genres and narratives we aim to explore to the world, but we are also committed to empowering voices that have been overlooked but are deeply passionate.
We want to offer them a platform to share their personal yet universally resonant stories on screen.” The new venture will co-develop, co-finance and co-produce projects with U.S.-based studios and producers such as Anita Gou from Kindred Spirit (“The Farewell”), and Justin Lin (“Fast & Furious” franchise).
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