Khadak (2006)

User Rating:

6.8/10   

Directors:

Peter Brosens
Jessica Hope Woodworth

Writers:

Peter Brosens (writer)
Jessica Hope Woodworth (screenplay)

Release Date:

21 February 2007 (Belgium)

Genre:

Drama

Plot:

Set in the frozen steppes of Mongolia, a young nomad confronted with his destiny after animals fall victim to a plague which threatens to eradicate nomadism.

Plot Keywords:

Steppes | Vision | Plague | Epilepsy | Mongolia

Awards:

16 wins & 3 nominations

Cast

Batzul Khayankhyarvaa	...	Bagi
Tsetsegee Byamba	...	Zolzaya
Banzar Damchaa	...	Grandfather
Tserendarizav Dashnyam	...	Shamaness
Dugarsuren Dagvadorj	...	Mother
Uuriintuya Enkhtaivan	...	Naraa
Otgontogos Namsrai	...	Doctor
Gereisukh Otgon	...	Nurse
Bat-Erdene Damdinsuren	...	Zolzaya's Brother

Also Known As:

Khadak - Die Farbe des Himmels (Germany) (TV title)
The Colour of Water (Belgium) (working title)

Runtime:

Belgium:104 min

Country:

Belgium | Germany | Netherlands

Language:

Mongolian

Color:

Color

Sound Mix:

Dolby Digital

Certification:

Belgium:KT | Germany:12

Filming Locations:

Inner Mongolia, China

Company:

Bo Films

Goofs:

Audio/visual unsynchronized: In the shots where the Shamaness is smashing the liquor bottles on the ground, several of them bounce, or just break into a few pieces, but the sound effect is still that of a bottle shattering to bits.

An emotional journey that captures the soul of Mongolian culture and tradition

A true work of art. An emotional journey that captures the soul of Mongolian culture and tradition while posing important questions on the dilemma facing traditional Mongolian values by the destruction of Mongolians most precious treasure, their land, by international mining operations.

Beautifully crafted scene's and soul shaking audio design tell much of the story that has been left unverbalized. The directors have done an amazing job of researching Mongolian culture, society, social changes, etc. and show a true appreciation for Mongolia's heritage.

The directors use of a generally unexperienced cast, with the exception of a few of Mongolia's best, had astounding results. The actors who played the main characters Bagi and Zolzaya were flawless, especially considering they have never acted before.

Reading the synopsis and interviews with the directors afterwards may help some not familiar with Mongolia to better understand some of the deeper meaning and symbolism embedded in this film.

10 out of 10!