“Mongol” fuses compelling drama, a heartbreaking love story and visceral action into a visually stunning historical epic. The introductory piece of a potential trilogy, “Mongol” focuses on the early life of Temudgin, the fierce warrior who would unite all Mongols to become the legendary Genghis Khan.
The narrative traces the early life of Temudgin from his dangerous childhood to the decisive battle that seals his position as the leader of all Mongols. Covering much ground, the film wisely focuses on the two defining relationships of Temudgin’s early years: his love for Borte, his wife and trusted advisor, and his friendship and subsequent conflict with Jamukha, his blood brother and a rival Mongol chieftain.
The love story between Temudgin and Borte is one of the highlights of the film, with an emotional resonance comparable to “Dr. Zhivago”. The tender bond between the two is palpable and we instinctively know that their forced separations will drive them to desperate actions. It is to director Sergei Bodrov’s credit that he allows the viewer time to appreciate the tender moments between Temudgin and Borte without feeling the need to rush toward the next battle scene.
The battle scenes themselves are ferocious. The camera slows down and weaves chaotically amongst the fighters making you feel as if you are right there in the midst of battle. Blood flows freely in the stylistic “300” mode. The cinematography is stellar, capturing the desolate and dangerous beauty of the Mongolian landscape. The sense of place and time helps to underscore the film’s epic scale.
The acting is very good overall. Tadanobu Asano captures the stoic yet fiery Temudgin in an understated yet powerful performance. Khulan Chuulun, a Mongolian newcomer, portrays Borte as a spirited and courageous woman. But the powerhouse performance belongs to Honglei Sun whose Jamukha is transformed into a feral, ferocious beast.
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