When I heard that there will be a film about Genghis Khan, I couldn’t help but expect a story about a merciless, blood thirsty, war leader who was unapologetic in his conquering and constantly ate the flesh of his enemies (who wouldn’t given the chance?).
However, I was taken aback by the beautiful story that portrayed him not only as a deeply religious, loving father, but also a person that was totally committed to uniting the many nomadic tribes of his people. The director, Sergei Bodrov shows us the true heart of a man that had been persecuted at birth and yet overcame all his obstacles to become a fearful leader. This is illustrated by the popular Mongolian saying “Do not scorn a weak cub, for he may grow up to be a fearful tiger.” Healthy advice for all you secondary school bullies out there.
But this is not just your run of the mill film about a revolutionary who overcomes adversity and inspires a nation. No, Mongol purports to give the truest account of Genghis’ life as compiled by Bodrov and screenplay writer, Arif Aliyev; thereby dispelling the rumours about Genghis that you may have come to love. The story is beautifully told and the acting is superb. I especially enjoyed Amarbold Tuvshinbayar’s portrayal of Jamuka, Genghis’ blood brother and penultimate nemesis, whose reasoning for not doing anything he didn’t want to was “that’s just not what Mongols do.” There are certain principles that are subtlety drilled into our subconscious like racial pride, the importance of traditions and the love of a good woman but the basic story is interesting enough that it does not feel like a history lesson.
So, even if you are not interested in ancient war heroes or the origin of Mongolia, this movie will still appeal. Testosterone filled men will be pleased with the bloody battles and the romantics among you will be equally pleased with Genghis’ commitment to his wife, Borte despite falling pregnant whilst in the enemy’s camp. This film is worthy of its nomination at the Academy Awards in the category of Best Foreign Language Film. Mongol paints such a great picture of Genghis that you’ll end up wishing that he was one of the candidates for the London Mayoral election. Men, feel proud as apparently 1 in 200 of us share the great man’s genes.
Words: Elijah Lawal
