Mountain Patrol: Kekexili

This movie will stick with you. Filmed in the remote border of China, Tibet, and Uygur, this film is based on the true story of the Mountain Patrol. Apparently, during the 90's, there was a major problem with poachers killing Tibetan antelope. A number of people decided to form the Mountain Patrol to fight the poachers. Violence ensued between the poachers and the patrol.


This film blew me away. Director Lu Chuan definitely was influenced by Leone. Every scene is amazing. The cinematography is stunning. I would never have thought that dozens of antelope carcasses could look so beautiful. The 95 minutes fly by. It is fascinating to see a film like this set in a place that I don't know anything about. The men not only have to fight amongst themselves but they also have to deal with the harsh elements. If nothing else, this film is worth seeing for the death by sand scene that comes out of absolutely nowhere. The fact that this is based on a true story makes it all the more astounding.

The Sunshine
2004, Year of U.S. Release - 2006