Reviewed by Adam Whittaker
Stars Takashi Sorimachi, Rei Kikukawa, Mayumi Wakamura, Ken'ichi Matsuyama, Yoshihiko Hakamada,
Eugene Nomura, Ara | Written by Takehiro Nakajima & Shoichi Maruyama, from the novel by Seiichi Morimura
UK certification 15 | UK RRP £19.99 | DVD Region 2 | Runtime 134 minutes | Directed by Shinichiro Sawai
Epic is a word bandied about unnecessarily, often used by PR companies to sell their new movie to an unsuspecting audience. In this case, it is more than justified if not an understatement. Genghis Khan: To the Ends of the Earth and Sea, is spectacular, gripping and powerful.
The Japanese movie traces the rise of the legendary Mongolian Emperor from his childhood through to his unrivalled conquests in Asia. It is certainly not difficult to see where the $30 million budget was spent. Ferocious and breath taking battle scenes are interspersed by thoughtful and revealing insight into one of the most feared men in history. Ironically, at times the superb acting and eloquent script almost endears you to the brutal leader. Originally born Temuijin and troubled by the secrecy surrounding his birth and origins, Khan becomes a prolific child warrior and eventually came to power by uniting the nomadic tribes of Northeast Asia. Upon the birth of his son, Khan fears that his child may actually have been fathered by a sworn enemy, leading to him exiling his son, only to see him again on his deathbed. Killing his lifelong friend with his own bear hands bears testament to the ferocious mentality of the man.
Genghis Khan is beautifully shot, striking and nothing less than awesome. Sorimachi puts in a memorable performance as Khan adding a humanity to the warrior and is supported by an excellent cast. The story of one of history's greatest leaders is simply told yet engaging to the point of mesmerising. Not just for history buffs, scenes with over 5,000 Mongolian Army soldiers alongside 27,000 extras is just one of the many reasons why this is indeed an epic. A must see.
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