Rising star Chanon Santinatornkul gives us a peek into his brilliance
Here’s an exclusive with the elusive genius
Die-hard fans of Asian cinema will know of Chanon Santinatornkul, a Thai TV actor who, in 2017, cemented his superstar status when he was cast in the lead of the award-winning film “Bad Genius.”
A relative newcomer who made his first on-screen appearance in 2014’s “Love’s Coming,” Nonkul was previously known for his roles on television, including Thailand’s popular series, “Hormones 3.” More recently, he appeared in “Project S the Series: Shoot! I Love You,” where he played an athlete and the object of affection of the series’ lead.
Nonkul also gained popularity in Thailand after taking on the lead role in the reproductive health campaign short film “Patcha is Sexy,” sponsored by Thailand’s Ministry of Health.
But it was only when “Bad Genius” became a box-office hit, not only in its native Thailand, but also in Cambodia, Malaysia, Taiwan, and the Philippines, that Nonkul became a certified star and heartthrob, catching the attention of critics, award-giving bodies, and a legion of fans from all over Asia.
Aside from becoming one of the youngest Best Actor winners of the Suphannahong National Film Awards, one of Thailand’s most prestigious acting honors, he also won the nod of the Bangkok Critics Assembly Awards, for playing Bank in the movie inspired by a real-life cheating scandal involving high school students and standardized testing.
His acting skills, coupled with his boyish good looks, has inspired a sort of madness wherever he goes. During Nonkul’s visit to the Philippines for his first ever solo fan meeting, where he showed off his singing and dancing skills, and got to know his fans a little bit better.
Garage Magazine sat down with the “Bad Genius” star where he shared his thoughts on fashion, dream roles, and his message for his fans.
What are your tips for looking good and stylish?
I don’t think I’m a stylish person. But if you’re talking about looking healthy, I would say eat healthy food, sleep a lot, and workout a lot.
How would you describe your style?
[My style] is very simple. I’m not very [into] fashion; I prefer just wearing a T-shirt and a long-sleeved shirt.
What is your everyday outfit like?
I prefer wearing long-sleeved shirts because in Thailand, it’s very hot and the sun can burn your skin. So I wear long-sleeves so my skin won’t burn.
What do you wear on your days off?
The same thing, but with a cap.
What is your dream role?
Kingsman.
Do you have a message for your Filipino fans?
Thank you for supporting me. I know that [I live] very far away and I don’t come here often, but you still keep on supporting me. I promise that I will continue making quality work for you guys to watch. I hope you will keep on supporting me in the future.
Photographer: Dookie Ducay
Editor: Rey Ilagan
Style director: Edlene Cabral
Style associate: Yzza Hablado
Contributing features editor: Didy Evangelista
Digital editor: Poy Villamonte
