A Nyamgavaa Film production. (International sales: Nyamgavaa Film Production Co.) Produced by Ichinhorloo Nyamgavaa. Directed by Ichinhorloo Nyamgavaa. Screenplay, B. Dogmid. Camera (Fujicolor), G. Mash; editor, Odgerel Dogmid; music, N. Jantsannorov; production designer, G. Gungasukh. Reviewed at Palm Springs Film Festival, Jan. 22, 2000. Original title: Dogshin hutagtin sakhius. Running time: 104 MIN.
There's nothing fierce about the historical hero at the center of "Ferocious Saint Lord of Gobi," by all accounts the first film from Mongolia to screen in the U.S. Ravjaa was holy leader of the Mongolian Buddhist "Red" sect through mid-19th century, managing to combine sacred duties with secular theatrical pursuits until he met his demise by rivals' poisoning. A true find for adventurous festgoers who know they'll never see this in theatrical release, biopic finally emerges as unevenly paced and dramatized but familiar to auds fond of similar, if more gracefully conceived, Chinese epics.
Chronologically linear storyline traces Ravjaa from birth (signaling for faithful the reincarnation of Buddha) and humble shepherding roots to his emergence as sect leader with a highly theatrical bent. In his ninth film (and one of first made without state involvement/interference) helmer Ichinhorloo Nyamgavaa treats his subject with a certain flatness that impedes total engagement for cultural outsiders, and Dogmid Sosorbaram's perf is not at the level to carry grand-scale material. But sheer surprise of watching religious leader put on shows or frolic naked in a yurt hot-tub leaves potent lasting impressions.
With: Dogmid Sosorbaram, O. Baigal, N. Dolgor, L. Jamsranjav.
Contact the Variety newsroom at
news@variety.com
Date in print: Mon., Feb. 7, 2000