What 2005 Thai martial arts film, starring Tony Jaa, features his character Kham traveling to Australia to retrieve his stolen elephant?

The 2005 Thai martial arts film described is indeed "The Protector (Review)." Known internationally by various titles, including its original Thai name "Tom-Yum-Goong," the movie centers on Kham, a young man from rural Thailand who embarks on a relentless quest to retrieve his two beloved elephants, Por Yai and his calf Kohrn. These elephants, considered part of his family and destined for the King of Thailand, are stolen by an international crime syndicate and smuggled to Sydney, Australia, prompting Kham's journey to a foreign land to rescue them.

Starring the renowned martial artist Tony Jaa, the film is celebrated for its breathtaking, often wire-free and CGI-free action sequences that showcase Jaa's incredible physical prowess. Jaa, who also choreographed the fights with his mentor Panna Rittikrai, developed a unique fighting style for the film called "Muay Kotchasaan," or "elephant boxing," a variation of Muay Thai that incorporates grappling and joint manipulations, perfectly reflecting Kham's deep connection to his elephants.

"The Protector" solidified Tony Jaa's reputation globally and significantly contributed to popularizing Muay Thai on the international stage. Among its many memorable moments is a remarkable four-minute, single-take fight scene where Kham battles his way up a spiraling staircase through multiple floors, a sequence that took a month to prepare and two weeks to shoot. The film's themes of loyalty, justice, and the profound bond between humans and animals resonate strongly with audiences, making it a significant entry in martial arts cinema.