Q&A: Thanachat “Arty” Toolyachat

August 22nd, 2008

BK: How did you get the part?

Arty: I went to an audition after I heard that they were looking for someone to play Boon Choke. A few days later, the director called and asked me to attend an acting workshop. They then ran another audition and I got the job.

BK: What was it like being in the film?

Arty: It was really exciting and a real honor to meet and work with such famous and talented actors. As for the younger stars in the movie, we’re all really close. I got to know everyone really well because we ended up spending everyday together for two and a half months.

BK: What were the challenges you faced on set?

Arty: At first, I was kind of lost and wasn’t sure what to do. But the crew and the other actors gave me loads of advice and I learned to relax and took the pressure off myself. The action scenes were especially hard. I had to take part in fistfights, and I ended up with a few bruises.

BK: Do you see similarities between you and Boon Choke?

Arty: Boon Choke is a kind-hearted kid, he’s harmless and optimistic. I’m not exactly like him, because he was a Buddhist novice since he was little. The one thing we do share is the fact that we’re both from outside of Bangkok and have had to cope with a different pace of life in the capital.

BK: What’s it like having people recognize you?

Arty: It’s a bit weird. One minute I was an ordinary person and the next people started to come up to me on the streets.

BK: What did you want to be when you were growing up?

Arty: I’ve always wanted to become a musician or a director. I play the guitar and used to play in a band. I haven’t given up on those dreams just yet.

BK: Do you still want to take the acting further?

Arty: Acting is fun. I really enjoy it, so yes. I want to keep doing more comedies, nothing grim or serious like a drama or a horror. My dream is to be in a comedy with Mum Jokmok.

BK: What’s it like getting into this business so young?

Arty: The defi nite con is that I don’t really get to live a normal teenage life and spend time with my friends. Ever since we started shooting, I’ve had to put school on hold. Once my work schedule clears up, I will have to go back and catch up on everything. On the plus side, I get to experience life in a way not many teenagers get to. I feel more mature, more responsible. Being in this business teaches you a lot.