Bangkok - Netflix said on
Tuesday it had secured the rights to make a miniseries about the
dramatic rescue of 12 boys and their soccer coach from a cave in
northern Thailand last year that captured international
attention.
"The story combines so many unique local and universal
themes which connected people from all walks of life, from all
around the world," Erika North, Netflix's Director of
International Originals, said.
"Thailand is a very important market for Netflix and we are
looking forward to bringing this inspiring local, but globally
resonant story...to life," she added.
The "Wild Boars" soccer team, aged between 11 and 16, and
their 25-year-old coach became trapped on June 23 while
exploring the cave complex in the northern province of Chiang
Rai when a rainy season downpour flooded the tunnels.
A 17-day effort to rescue them gripped the world with
experts from various countries volunteering to help.
"We look forward to working with all involved parties to
ensure our story is told accurately," assistant coach Ekkapol
"Ake" Chantapong said.
The miniseries will be directed by Crazy Rich Asians
director Jon M. Chu and Nattawut "Baz" Poonpiriya.
Netflix and SK Global Entertainment secured the rights from
the 13 Thamluang, a company established by the boys and their
coach.
So far, two books about the rescue have been published while
a feature film by British-Thai director Tom Waller, "The Cave",
wrapped up shooting in December, according to the Hollywood
Reporter.