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Moviola > Films > Mongol
Mongol (15) 126 mins"Greatness comes to those who take it." Award-winning Russian director Sergei Bodrov illuminates the life and legend of Genghis Khan in this stunning historical epic. Mongol explores the dramatic and harrowing early years of the ruler who was born as Temudgin in 1162. As it follows Temudgin from his perilous childhood to the battle that sealed his destiny, the film paints a multidimensional portrait of the future conqueror, revealing him not as the evil brute of hoary stereotype, but as an inspiring, fearless and visionary leader. Mongol shows us the making of an extraordinary man, and the foundation on which so much of his greatness rested: his relationship with his wife Borte, his lifelong love and most trusted advisor. Filmed in the very lands that gave birth to Genghis Khan, Mongol transports us back to a distant and exotic period in world history, to a nomad's landscape of endless space, climatic extremes and ever-present danger. Masterfully blending action and emotion against some of the most arresting terrain on earth, Bodrov delivers an exciting and awe-inspiring tale of survival and triumph, and a timeless love story. Mongol is the first part of a projected trilogy. Oscar nominated for Best Foreign Film of 2007. "Mongol moves solemnly across the decades, accumulating rich ethnographic detail and enough dramatic intrigue to sustain a viewer’s interest through the slower stretches. While it takes a sympathetic view of young Genghis Khan — whose name, in the West, is a synonym for rapacity — it does not force him into conformity with modern sensibilities. His world feels authentically raw and refreshingly archaic, and also strangely beautiful." New York Times "Vast landscapes, savage battles, sparring blood brothers and a poignant love story form the essence of Sergei Bodrov's spectacular epic, among whose achievements are its extraordinary sense of place and time. Meticulously researched, this exploration of the background of legendary 12th century Mongol warrior Genghis Khan focuses on aspects of his life that history books fail to reveal. Perhaps most surprising is the relationship between the Khan (formerly known as Temudgin) and the bride he chooses for himself, aged nine, which influences his entire life. With its stand-out music score comprising an explosive combo of musical styles, Mongol never fails to be fascinating, if occasionally frustrating, as it cinematically opens a window into the traditions, culture and faith of a mostly unknown time and place." Urban Cinefile Last modified: 11-Aug-2009 |
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