Mongol now ranks alongside some of the greatest epic films I’ve watched to date. This award winning feature written by Russian director Sergei Bodrov, chronicles the early life of Temudgin, the son of a insignificant khan who through various trials and tribulations becomes the legendary Genghis Khan, one of the most feared and powerful men to ever walk the face of the earth.
It’s in depth storyline, breathtaking cinematography, and excellent character development, were obvious reasons why I enjoyed this feature, but it was actually the portrayal of Temudgin (Genghis Khan) that really stood out for me. Normally depicted as a cruel and ruthless warrior king in most other film’s, in the movie Mongol, Temudgin is portrayed as a loving father and husband as well as a man of faith and values. His humanity shone nicely throughout this film, and the audience gets a chance to see the other side of a man who is otherwise known only for his barbaric deeds.
Mongol is truly a masterpiece of cinema. I would highly recommend this film to anyone who loves epic films.
Synopsis:
Based on the controversial writings of Russian historian Lev Gumilyov, director Sergei Bodrov’s look at the early years in the life of the Mongol conqueror stars Japanese actor Tadanobu Asano as Temudgin (as he was then known), Honglei Sun as Mongol chieftain Jamukha, who was both Temudgin’s close friend and mortal enemy, and newcomer Khulan Chuluun as his wife, Borte. Born in the year 1162, Temudgen’s childhood was marred by tragedy and peril. But a great battle would seal Temudgen’s fate forever, and though history often paints him as a brute, the truth is much more complex. Few historians make mention of the role Temudgen’s wife, Borte, played in advising her husband and elevating him to greatness. With Borte by his side, Temudgen would rise to become a fearless visionary whose legacy would still prove potent enough to stir controversy centuries after his death. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide
Watched this last week and have to agree that it is a good one. My favorite scenes were actually the family ones. For a man to accept a child that obviously is not his own with such confidence, that was an awesome scene.
@Polaris671 – I agree. Those scenes sold me. Very good movie. Did you know the lead actor is from Zatoichi!
I heard good and bad about this. Mostly the bad was that it was like a Chinese version of Braveheart. But visually beautiful. I’ll check it out one of these days… So many movies, so little time.
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I could have seen this in theater at the art house but I didn’t. I’ll pick up a copy and give it a watch. I love epics. Now if I could only see Battle of the Red Cliff.
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Once, I was walking down the street in San Francisco all wrapped up in a long white dress and this drunk belligerent bum called me Genghis Khan… It was really weird. Am I the chick reincarnate and the bum a prophet?
Thanks for the review. I will check it out.
screenwritingforhollywoods last blog post..Interview with Muzz, Winner of SFH ‘Write a Screenplay in One Month’ Competition
@screenwritingforhollywood – haha. Nice.
lol man, my “movies to see” list just keeps growing, and growing… Hope I remember this one.
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@fragileheart – dont forget this one reg! its really good!
i enjoyed it. it dragged in some areas, i felt it was lacking content in a few areas of development, but the cinematography was excellent and the actors did very well. ive always had an interest in different leaders, and this movie has me wanting to know more about mongols and Geghis khan. i wonder what kind of budget they had to work with. overall good flik.
@Fred – Pare’, stop fan putting porn links on your address! Its gets thrown into the SPAM box everytime! LOL.
Glad you enjoyed the movie. They worked with a fairly low budget considering the bigger EPICs that have come out. I have to look up the exact amounts again.
I thought the movie was good. The preview actually deceived me a bit as I was expecting some hardcore action. But this was a very good take on Temudgin the man rather than Genghis Khan. At least now I know what scares Mongols…