Lord of the Dance
Netflix making mini-series about Thai cave rescue
Entertainment

Netflix making mini-series about Thai cave rescue

NETFLIX is set to make a mini-series chronicling the heroic rescue of 12 young boys and their football coach from a cave in Thailand.

The story of the Wild Boars soccer team was one that gripped people all over the world – not least in Ireland.

The group became trapped in a flooded cave in northern Thailand for more than two weeks last June 2018.

Their rescue was coordinated by divers and experts from all around the world, including Ireland where a Limerick man donated scuba diving equipment that played a vital role in the operation.

The local man from Cappamore in Co Limerick provided specialist diving equipment to help rescuers navigate the complex caves.

And while it remains to be seen as to whether his efforts will feature in the new eight-part series, it would appear the project is in good hands.

Jon M. Chu and Nattawut "Baz" Poonpiriya, best known for the critically acclaimed Crazy Rich Asians, are set to direct the series.

"The story combines so many unique local and universal themes which connected people from all walks of life, from all around the world," Netflix's Erika North 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.”

The series will chronice how the team, aged between 11 and 16, became trapped with their 25-year-old coach while exploring the Chiang Rai cave complex during rainy season.

It will pay tribute to the efforts of those who helped during the 17-day ordeal and the work of former Thai navy diver Saman Gunan who died after losing consciousness on his way out of the caves after delivering air tanks.

The series comes hot on the heels of plans for a film chronicling the rescue.