Movie Digest
The movie talks about a strict, corporate honcho Saburo who decides to send his spoilt grand son Takeshi to Mongolia. The idea behind the travel is to have Takeshi search for Saburo’s long lost daughter that he had fathered with a Mongol woman during the World War II. He hopes that the search for Takeshi’s aunt would give the boy a sense of intent and purpose in life. Accompanying him on the journey of self-discovery is guide hired by Saburo
The Feel Good Part
At the onset, the brilliant cinematography of the rural countryside of the mysterious country of Mongolia. Some of the scenes shot in Mongolia, especially the chance meeting with a shaman is memorable. The best highlight of the movie is the transformation of Takeshi itself from a spoilt brat to a man with a mission.
The Disappointing Factor
The initial part of the movie is quite repetitive and some of the scenes could have been avoided. In addition, the reason behind Saburo hiring a thief as Takeshi’s guide is also not explained in the movie.
In-Depth Analysis
There have been a number of movies that have had a spoilt character being transformed by an incident in their life. This movie is also the based on the same lines. But the difference is the movie is shot in Mongolia.
The movie explores the relationship between a traditional honcho Saburo who is unhappy with his wayward grandson Takeshi. In order, to bring some direction is his life Saburo sends him to Mongolia to search for his long-lost daughter. The reason for Saburo took this long to find his daughter is a loose end and not explained clearly in the movie. In addition, the guide who accompanies Takeshi is a horse thief hired by Saburo and the audience is not clear on the motive for hiring him over the others.
As the movie progresses into the countryside, the backdrop just adds to the story line and is the star. It is in Mongolia, that the Takeshi’s transformation begins. The interactions and meetings changes him from a brat to a man with a purpose.
Star Power
The cast led by Yuya Yagira who plays Takeshi is fabulous. Yuya has always played serious roles so it is fun to watch his comic timing. Also, when Takeshi’s transformation begins, Yuya has managed to bring and own it onscreen.
Overall Opinion
While there have been enough and more movies based on the same storyline, but if you nothing to do then please watch it for the cinematography. The movie is truly an ode to Mongolia.
