Movie Review: Myn Bala Warriors of the Steppe

Myn Bala: Warriors of the Steppe
Starring: Asylkhan Tolypov, Tlektes Meiramov, Ayan Utepbergenov, Toleubek Aralbai, Kuralai Anarbekova, Aliya Anuarbek, Aliya Telebarisova
Director: Akan Satayev 

Kazakhfilm, Kazakhstan, 2012

In the early 1700s Dzungar tribes occupied the Kazakh lands and burned local villages. A young boy Sartai witnesses the destruction of his village by Dzungar warriors. Years later Sartai (Asylkhan Tolypov) and his friends Taimas (Ayan Utepbergenov) and female warrior Korlan (Kuralai Anarbekova) are living in the mountain area with their surviving relatives. They visit a village lower in the valley.

Village elder telling stories of old battles

Korlan and Sartai

Sartai attends an wrestling competition, wins and meets the chief. Sartai and Taimas get angry when the villagers seem to have warm relations with Dzungan warlord Ayur. The trio decides to avenge the destruction of their village. After raiding Dzungans they meet other warriors resisting Dzungans.

Sartai and Taimas go to village

Zera on the left

The trio continues their guerrilla strikes while tribes are trying to decide on war. Sartai falls in love with village chief's daughter Zere (Aliya Anuarbek). Sartai's uncle Nazar fears that the actions of the heroes may cause suffering to other Kazakhs. Sartai's reputation causes jealosy and Sartai is betrayed. Film culminates in the 1729 Battle of Anyrakay that is quite unknown to Western world, so it is impossible to say anything about historical accuracy.

Warrior at sunset

Dzungar commander observing battle

Myn Bala does not complicate war much: movie's heroes are brave and patriotic and enemies are evil invaders who must be driven out. The plot is fairly standard with Kazakhs fighting for independence. Battles look realistic and are mostly mounted combat, using bows, swords and maces. The sceneries are beautiful and the costumes are well done. Film has beautiful cinematography and music is accompanied by Kazakh folk songs.

Horse warfare

Sartai fighting Dzungar forces

Widescreen is used well for gorgeous landscapes

Rating: Good