by Kevin Powers

Created on: August 05, 2008

First of all I'd like to point out that trying to remember all the names of all the characters in the new film MONGOL may be a little difficult at first but don't let those miner glitches on my part distract from the fact that I truly believe that this is one of the best films of 2008.

The story of MONGOL is the rise of Mongol Temudjin (Tadanobu Asano) into the legendary warrior Genghis Khan. It would have been easy for the filmmakers to simply present the clichd version of a ruthless and unforgiving ruler but here screenwriters Arif Aliyev and Sergei Bodrov (who also directed) decided to present the story all before Temudjin became the Khan of the Mongol people. On the day Temudjin's father is poisoned by another nomadic race at place of sanctuary, Temudjin's life is forever changed. He is stripped of his heritage and forced to live a life on the run and in hiding of fear of being killed because of who his was related to. Temudjin's life is further changed by the fact that before his father died he was fated to be wed to Borte (Khulan Chuluun) a chieftain's daughter whom his life will forever be linked. While on the run Temudjin becomes blood brother to Jamukha (Honglei Sun) which will become a life long bond until Temudjin is forced to decide between being Jumukha's second in command or a man destined to bring all Mongols under one rule and one Khan.

Temudjin's actions are dictated by his undying love for Borte and vice versa which drives the narrative of this tortured love story that must overcome a plethora of obstacles. Temudjin's is beaten and almost broken because of his beliefs but it is his love of Borte which changes him and turns him into the man he will ultimately become and will be feared.

MONGOL is a sweeping love story amid the backdrop of constant war and tragedy similar to THE ENGLISH PATIENT, TITANIC, or THE BEST OF YOUTH. This love story is what really helps you realize what a truly visionary person Genghis Khan was and the final battle of the film shows you why he was so feared by his enemies. MONGOL is one of those few action films that delivers both the epic romance and the epic battles and is more impressive then anything that has come out of Hollywood this summer.

The film is enjoying a healthy Box Office in most markets as it becomes a "sleeper" hit with audiences. It's true to life depiction of Genghis Khan is a sight to behold more brazzen then anything else on the big screen which should help extend the life of the film over the entire summer and on video. This is one film that should not be missed.

Learn more about this author, Kevin Powers.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.