Mongol is an epic tale that follows the early years and subsequent rise to power of Ghengis Kahn, ruler of the Mongol empire that stretched over half the known world. The action is played out against the visually stunning backdrop of the vast Mongolian steppe, and the landscape is one of the key elements in the story, shaping at every turn the character and spirit of the Mongol people, and in particular that of the strong-willed Temudjin, as Ghengis Kahn was known before his ascent to power.
Russian director Sergei Bodrov’s depiction of Temudjin is rather generous considering that the name Ghengis Khan later became synonymous with murder and oppressive rule. His Temudjin is usually stoic, serene even while being held captive, dedicated to the safety of his family and the welfare of his men. This is somewhat at odds with the fact that he spent half his life raging through wars.
Bodrov manages to make the story very intimate despite its grand scale by focusing on the role Temudjin’s wife Borte. As a boy, Temudjin’s friend tells him that a horse is more important than a woman to a Mongol man. Temudjin has a mind of his own however and his wife remains the main driving force behind all he does. He also disregards superstition by refusing to fear the thunder and lightening that Mongols believe is their God expressing his anger, and this is what ultimately sets him apart and earns him hordes of followers when he decides to unite the Mongol people under his rule. Compelling and spectacular throughout.
