Rated: R

Based on scholarly accounts, Mongol centers on Temudgen, the son of a Khan who eventually becomes the ruler of all Mongolia, Genghis Khan. The film traces Temudgen from childhood where he selects his wife, gets caught up in treachery, becomes a slave and fights for the freedom of all Mongols.

The action in the film is swift and bloody. Bodrov showers the screen with droplets of red as thousands of Mongolian horsemen with long knives slash enemies during some fierce battles. Riding at full gallop, the clashes are savage and seemingly endless as the tribes fight for supremacy and revenge. The epic film reminded me of the broad spectacle of the classic film Lawrence of Arabia, but with a more somber mood.

Set in 12th century Mongolia, the film shows what it was probably like for the nomadic people of a foreboding land. Mongol provides a geography lesson along with a historical one, delving into how the Asian people, in small portable villages on endless barren landscapes; survived attacks, wet summers and devastating winters.

The acting by Asano and Odnyam is superb, capturing the willpower and strength of the mighty Temudgen. The transformation from youngster (played brilliantly by Odnyam) to a great warrior whose unwavering determination to get back the empire that was stolen from his father, is compelling and gutsy. In the role of Borte, the wife of Temudgen, Sun does a great job of depicting the strong-willed wife unyielding to the enemy as she helps her husband get back his tribe that was torn apart.

FINAL ANALYSIS: Mongol shines as a great epic film for adults who like their films physical, interesting and fearless.

This Reviewer's Rating: 4 / 5 

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