WHEN it comes to action-horror movies, Thailand is serving up something truly special with 'Operation Undead'.
In this thrilling new film, currently screening in cinemas, actor Awat Ratanapintha steps into the unknown and portrays a character trapped in a world of zombies and survival.
Set in the Chumphon Province in 1941, Mok and his ragtag group of young soldiers are thrown against the invading Japanese forces. But the invaders bring with them a terrifying biological weapon.
Mek, Mok's older brother, is an NCO serving close by. Mek is ordered to join forces with the Japanese when they lose control of their weapon but finds out that his orders could mean the death of his brother.
The film, directed by Kongkiat Komesiri, is not your average zombie flick — it intertwines history, family bonds, and the battle for humanity's soul.
Awat opens up about his experience tackling his first zombie movie, the complexities of his character, and the joys and challenges of bringing the undead to life.
Q: Have you ever acted in this genre before?
No, this is a first for me! When I was contacted about it and found out it was a zombie film, I was immediately intrigued.
I've always enjoyed watching zombie series, so the thought of being part of one was thrilling. But what drew me in was the script.
It was a fresh take on the genre, blending elements of World War II and real historical references like the Youth Military.
Zombies with a touch of history? I couldn't resist. And when I saw the updated script on set, I knew I had something special in my hands.
Q: You originally auditioned for the role of Mek but ended up playing Mok. How did that happen?
It was unexpected! I went in prepared to audition for Mek, but after a few scenes, the casting team asked me to try out for Mok.
I didn't even know Mok's lines, so I had to improvise on the spot. Turns out, they liked me better as Mok! That's the beauty of auditions — sometimes you surprise even yourself with what you bring to the table.
It was a total transformation for me, and I loved that challenge. You just have to be ready to dive into whatever role fits best.
Q: What is the character of Mok like?
Mok evolved so much from the first workshop to the final shoot. Initially, I thought he was this quiet kid with a rebellious streak — someone who didn't want to follow in the footsteps of a soldier.
But after working with director Kome and the team, Mok became so much more. He's a dreamer, with clear life goals and beliefs, but also mischievous and a bit of a coward when it comes to real conflict.
He's the life of the party and a natural leader among his friends, but when things go south, Mok's the first one to run.
Playing Mok was a challenge because he's so different from me. I had to tap into a more youthful, carefree side of myself — something I usually only show around close friends.
But once I connected with the younger cast members, especially those playing the Youth Military, it became easier. They brought so much energy that I found myself reflecting that in my character.
By the end, we became this tight-knit group, and saying goodbye was emotional. I cried when filming wrapped!
Q: How do you detach yourself from a completed project?
When a project like this ends, it feels like I've borrowed happiness from the future, and now it's time to pay it back.
You pour so much of yourself into the role that it's hard to let go. I spent nearly four months on 'Operation Undead' — from preparation to the final day of shooting.
During breaks, I would slip back into being myself, but I always knew I had to return to that zombie mindset. It's a strange feeling.
Letting go is a process. You have to acknowledge that it's over and give yourself time to say goodbye to the character.
It's bittersweet, but I also love that part of acting. Each project leaves its mark on you.
Q: What was it like playing a zombie in this film?
This was the most physically and mentally challenging role I've ever taken on. Zombies are tough!
In 'Operation Undead', I played a zombie who's trying to reclaim his humanity, which is an interesting twist.
I had to practice everything — from moving like a zombie to transforming back into something human. The physical demands were intense because everything had to feel instinctual but also controlled.
And the voice! Finding the right zombie voice was a whole other challenge. It had to be gritty but not damaging to my vocal cords, especially with all the growling and roaring involved.
I didn't want to lose my voice halfway through filming. Mentally, it was about transitioning between being human and being something otherworldly. It required layers of development and constant switching, which was a detailed process.
Q: Besides the friendships in the film, there's a sibling relationship. Did you draw from your relationship with your brother?
Funny enough, I didn't bring personal experiences into this. My character's relationship with his brother, played by Nonkul, developed purely from our workshopping and interpreting the script together. The brothers care deeply for each other but never say it outright. It's all in their actions.
The cool part is, I've known Nonkul for a long time. We were in the same agency, but this was our first project acting together.
We used that distance to our advantage, portraying a sibling bond that's deep but not overly affectionate. It was great fun exploring that dynamic."
Q: How is 'Operation Undead' different from other zombie movies?
This film stands out because it has heart and soul. It makes you reflect on what it means to be human, even as you're surrounded by zombies.
Once people turn into zombies in this world, they don't just give up. They fight to rediscover their humanity. It's a unique take on the genre that goes beyond just scares and thrills — it asks deeper questions about life, love, and dreams.
Have we told our loved ones that we love them? Have we followed our dreams?
It's a film that stays with you long after the credits roll.