Films about Mongolia provide an entertaining glimpse into this mysterious land, from stunning landscapes to intimate portrayals of nomadic traditions. Here are some great movies that showcase Mongolia’s majestic beauty and rich history.
This documentary-style film tells the inspiring tale of a herding family who adopt an albino camel calf after its mother rejects it – it is an endearing tale of love and compassion.
The Cave of the Yellow Dog
Director Byambasuren Davaa returns to Mongolian nomads she introduced in her Oscar-nominated documentary The Story of the Weeping Camel for this narrative feature film. Nansal and her family become protagonists when she finds a dog she wants as her pet; her father refuses due to fears it might attract wolves that threaten his flock and cause more tensions within the family, ultimately culminating when winter approaches and they must relocate camp for winter.
Davaa uses her camera to capture the daily activities of the Batchuluun family (real nomadic Mongolians with no acting experience), with the goal of showing what it’s like for them to live this unique lifestyle. As such, this film blurs the line between documentary and drama with stunning landscape photography captured beautifully, as well as dramatic depictions of familial conflict presented with remarkable skill.
This movie stands out with its straightforward plot and lack of an attempt to contextualize nomad life within more significant contemporary issues, providing a more intimate portrait of an increasingly endangered way of living. The script is both believable and poignant; all actors deliver stunning performances, making this cinematic experience something refreshingly different from most Hollywood cinematic offerings today.
The Cave of the Yellow Dog is an inspiring film about a girl and her family, and it also provides us with insight into modern Mongolia and the challenges faced by its nomads. Its themes of family, loss, and tradition should resonate with viewers worldwide; ultimately, this film about love and the human bond with animals will bring warmth to your heart and make you want to hug your pup! A must-see film for movie enthusiasts! Eric is an amateur classic movie reviewer from UCI/UCSC. Gooner fan/LA Galaxy supporter; voracious reader of news/politics/public policy studies/studying/public policy analysis/studying depression survivor. Follow @ericgypsy for updates! Copyright 2018 by Independent Cinema Guide
In Search of Lost Time
Marcel Proust’s In Search of Lost Time stands as a landmark work in modern narrative experiments. Comprising seven volumes, this novel follows its protagonist from childhood through adulthood and into old age, exploring themes like memory, art, and loss as its fluid narrative recalls dreams while its characters struggle with ghosts from their pasts.
In Search of Lost Time initially came to American readers through C. K. Scott Moncrieff and Terence Kilmartin’s translations under the title Remembrance of Things Past; however, its full title, In Search of Lost Time became popular after D. J. Enright’s revised edition was released in 1992. Like an orchestral composition, its seven volumes build upon each other, each chapter adding to events and themes explored previously. The Madeleine Cake episode sets forth this literary motif of memories triggered by sensory triggers.
The book takes place during France’s Belle Epoque period – from 1871 until World War I broke out in 1914 – and addresses several philosophical and psychological questions, such as experience being subjective, memory being powerful, impermanence of life and racism, antisemitism, pathological jealousy, homosexuality and pederasty among others.
The Camel’s Milk
Mongolia conjures images of vast landscapes stretching across the horizon and nomad tribes celebrating their rich culture. As Genghis Khan was born there and established an expansive empire there, many filmmakers have attempted to capture its spectacular landscapes and unique traditions on film – documentary or drama alike! There’s bound to be something in Mongolian cinema that will appeal to your taste. From amazing panoramic views to intimate portrayals of daily life – movies about Mongolia will transport you there quickly!
The Camel’s Milk is a drama based on the true story of Princess Ulun Iga, who lived in Mongolia during the 12th century. A remarkable woman of intelligence and strength, Ulun Iga’s story remains both inspiring and captivating – becoming a massive hit throughout Europe and garnering a nomination for an Academy Award as Best Foreign Language Film.
This documentary provides a stunning portrait of Mongolia’s rich cultural history and how it lives on through generations of nomads. Additionally, this is a beautiful way to experience the vast steppes while learning more about their inhabitants – nomads!
Nansal, a young girl in this film, takes it upon herself to rescue their beloved family dog after her mother has abandoned it. This touching tale highlights both humans’ strong connection with animals and the preservation of ancient traditions.
This epic adventure film from a Russia-Kazakh-Mongolian collaboration tells the tale of Genghis Khan, known as Temujin, during his formative years. While taking some creative liberties with its historical accuracy, this powerful and dramatic depiction is sure to dazzle any history buff or epic movie fan alike – its cinematography is stunning and acting fantastic – ideal if you want to learn more about Mongol Empire origins.
The Legend of Gobi
The Legend of Gobi is an ambitious movie with plenty to offer – gorgeous scenery, an exceptional cast, and an epic narrative – yet there are serious flaws – particularly with regards to English subtitles on the film, which make following plot points difficult as well as diminishing overall experience of viewing it.
Nansal, a young Mongolian girl, finds an abandoned dog and decides to bring it into her family home, much to her father’s disapproval and concern that it might attract wolves and ruin their herd. The film shows daily life within Mongolian households as well as traditions while exploring people-animal relationships.
Mongolia: Culture & History is an ideal film to watch for those interested in Mongolia’s history and culture. Packed with emotion and featuring a compelling plotline, it offers viewers an authentic depiction of Mongolia.
In 1206 the Mongol Empire reached its apex, dominating most of Asia and conquering half the globe including Russia. This grandiose historical drama won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival and was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film Oscar nominations.
This film follows Genghis Khan, the founder of the Mongol Empire, from his enslavement through to his conquest of half the globe and back again. Additionally, there are many interesting details regarding its history and relationship to Europe in this compelling narrative.
At a time of war in Mongolia, the last nomadic family is forced to relocate in search of safety – only to discover it may even be more hazardous than the one they left behind. This award-winning film explores family ties, tradition, and the power of determination through Tadanobu Asano and Aliya Ao’s compelling characters, portrayed by Nikita Mikhalkov – making this an excellent choice for learning more about Mongolia and its culture and history.
