‘Ong Bak’ star Tony Jaa joins Fast & Furious franchise-report

‘Fast & Furious 6’ included a healthy dose of martial arts hijinks to go with the high-revving action, courtesy of mixed martial artist Gina Carano. The sequel, set to debut in 2014, will reportedly add more kicks in the persona of Thai martial arts star Tony Jaa. Jaa made an impressive debut in the 2003 Thai language film “Ong Bak,” showcasing his extreme acrobatics and dance-like moves. Although a regional hit, the film and its sequels did not provide a solid breakthrough role for the actor. ‘Fast & Furious 7’ will be his first English language movie.  How exactly will he fight cars? Watch the clip below for some possibilities.

The 37-year old Jaa will join the returning cast of Fast and Furious, including Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, and Carano, who memorably visited Manila earlier this year. Of course, Mr. Franchise Viagra himself, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson will be on board as well. Jason Statham is another addition to the cast, and based on his cameo in the last film, seems set to portray the villain. The car behind Statham looks like the new Mercedes S-Class, completing his Transporter move from BMW to Audi to Mercedes.

Taking the film’s steering wheel will be James Wan, who recently directed the excellent horror film “The Conjuring.” ‘Fast & Furious 7’ is set to open in the USA on July 11, 2014.