Storyline

On patrol in the Caucasus mountains, Russian soldiers Vanya (Sergei Bodrov Jr.) and Sacha (Oleg Menshikov) become the prisoners of a Chechen village. Tribal leader Abdul-Murat (Jemal Sikharulidze) is willing to release the pair unharmed in exchange for his son, who is a prisoner in the custody of the Russians. After writing to their mothers with Abdul-Murat's terms, the duo are powerless to do anything but wait for an answer while getting used to life in the village.

Plot Keywords

russian, soldier, tribal leader, daughter, mother, prisoner, emotional, spectacular, russia, hill, village, hostage situation, assimilation, father/daughter relationship, ethnic tension, courage, friendship, love, transformation, 1990s

Short Review

The mountain-top locations are stunning; it's like a visit to the moon. And the story has all of the cynicism of war itself.

Trailer

Streaming Service

1. Amazon Video : Rent from $1.99, Or $0.00 with a Prime membership