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Mongol (2007)
A superb Fictitious Depiction of the Great Khan
Now I do not have a very full grasp on any era of Asian history, nor do I have much of an understanding of the life of Genghis Khan. Regardless I will confess that there is a considerable lack of historical accuracy in this film. This fact intrigues me in that it is technically a "Russian" film, a country which does NOT favorably view the Great Khan. But regardless of the historical lacking of this film. The poor depiction of all historical figures involved, and the over-dramatization of many action scenes; I thoroughly enjoy this film. Despite all of it's shortcomings it has plenty to be proud of:
-*Pacing*- I am not a patient movie viewer. I detest having to wait entire films for simple points. But this film was wonderfully paced. Every single scene had genuine purpose (with occasional spouts of surrealist moments)and worked to establish ideas and entertain. Every moment was exciting and involving.
-*Action*- Now this film is nothing "mind-blowing" in terms of action. But every single action scene is exciting and very nicely executed. The final battle itself is breathtaking in it's scope, it doesn't demonstrate any new ideas to action scenes, but at the same time it feels like a "real" battle, ignoring the liters of blood that spray from small cuts of course. In the return charge of the Keshik Horse Archers it doesn't try and idolize them by making them an invulnerable force. The entire time you can see the brilliant strategy of Genghis Khan unfold as he achieves victory in battle.
-*The Message*- This film does something clever, it makes a hero out of what many consider a monster. Whatever you think of Genghis Khan, this film would certainly make you think twice. His dedication towards his wife is touching in a way. Despite what the man did in real life this film depicts him in such a way that only his best qualities shine through. His cruel nature is evident, but it's not what defines him. He's never portrayed as a hero, but a man molded by his ideas. Destroying an entire village for the sake of his wife, the execution of enemy soldiers who desert their army. All of these, as cruel as some of them may seem, also may seem admirable.
-In Review-
I don't think this was meant as a film trying to accurately depict anything. Sergei Bodrov likely looked at the life of Genghis Khan and saw what a terribly fascinating man he was. Was the Khan a cruel and vicious killer with an utter lack of value for human life (save for that of his vassals)? Yup! But at the same time this movie is a..touching film if you will. To go to such lengths to save his wife, the devotion of a man to his ideas of loyalty and vassalage. When the filmed is viewed in that light; I believe it does a superb job of communicating it's message. Although Genghis Khan is not the best carrier for such a message, few others have demonstrated these ideas to such drastic extents. Compared to other historical action films it blasts them away. As a film on its own, it is still an amazing film that is certainly worth viewing.