Netflix has signed a deal with the Thailand “Wild Boars” boys soccer team and their coach for a future miniseries about their rescue from an underground cave.
Netflix and SK Global Entertainment inked a deal with 13 Thamluang, an LLC established by the boys (ages 11 to 16) and their 25-year-old coach following their 17-day ordeal being trapped underground in a cave filled with rain water.
The exasperating rescue effort garnered global attention as the ordeal went on and a Thai Navy Seal diver drowned.
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The series will be directed by Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians) and Nattawut Poonpiriya.
“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, director of international originals at Netflix, told Reuters.
The miniseries follows Netflix’s strategy focusing on localized content with global appeal. Recent hits include Germany’s “Dark” and India’s “Sacred Games.”
“Thailand is a very important market for Netflix and we are looking forward to bringing this inspiring local, but globally resonant story … to life,” North said.
To date, two books and one feature-film have been completed on the saga.
“We look forward to working with all involved parties to ensure our story is told accurately,” said assistant coach Ekkapol “Ake” Chantapong.