The Horsemen

At the foot of the Afghan mountains, young Uraz (Omar Sharif) struggles to live up to the standards of his macho father (Jack Palance) by engaging in a violent tournament of Bozkeshi -- a sport where players on horses attempt to move the carcass of a sheep into a circle. But an accident costs Uraz his leg, and the incident soon leads him on a journey of self-discovery. Directed by John Frankenheimer.

Feedgeist

» Reviewed by 1 person

Before the Soviet invasion and before the Taliban, there was an Afghan culture that was rich and diverse. Filmed when Afghanistan was still ruled by King Sahir Shah, during a forty year period of stability, before playing music, singing, dancing, kite flying and even shaving were outlawed. Back then women had more rights than today, but for some reason there is only one female character in the story, a beautiful young woman of low caste and morals (played by Leigh Taylor-Young) who is cold hearted and consumed with greed. This film takes a look at Buskashi, a sport that goes back to ancient times, and at some people who are obsessed with it. Omar Sharif plays an unlikable tortured soul who feels he must win an important Buskashi tournament. This movie is dark and brooding, and takes a nihilistic view of humanity, that deals with issues of pride, lust, envy, and stubbornness, but eventually forgiveness and redemption. Animal advocates will be appalled by the cruelty, mainly the fighting of animals for gambling purposes, including camels and rams. I don't think any of it was simulated, in other words, yes, animals were hurt during the making of this film. However it is an important part of the culture and it adds to the realism of the story. Don't rent the movie if scenes of animal cruelty offend your sensibilities. Even some of the treatment of the horses is questionable. With all it's shortcomings, I still think this is a great film. Excellent cinematography featuring spectacular panoramic vistas, top notch directing and award worthy performances by Omar Sharif and Jack Palance make this a most memorable viewing experience, and I highly recommend it.
- couchdog53