O Guarda-Costas

It's quite rare this little movie from USSR. It takes place somewhere in the South of the Soviet Union - today independent - republics; Afghanistan or Tadjekistan, something like this. And it seems to occur in the early twentieth century. But for sure, it has nothing to do with soviet war in Afghansitan during the eighties. And it was shot in 1979 whilst the war began December the 26th of the same year...

Interesting little feature that speaks of fighting tribes among the mountains, natives fighting against each other, with rather convincing characters played by totally unknown actors; at least for western audiences. I sometimes thought of John Frankenheimer's HORSEMEN. I am not surprised that this feature is not known. It seemed to be taped off from a Russian channel.

Of course, everything here was shot in natural settings, with good camera work and pretty directed action sequences.

Another lively Soviet Red Western (Ostern) film from Soviet/Uzbek filmmaker Ali Hamroyev. The action takes place circa 1921 in Central Asia, when at this time The Basmachi Movement, a diverse group of tribal Muslim nationalists are waging a ruthless guerrilla campaign, fiercely resisting the Soviet Red Armies advance into their sacred territories. Our hero, fearless and honorable is Soviet revolutionary Mirzo, he is tasked with escorting the prominent Basmachi prisoner Sultan Nazar to the regional center of Bukhara. Mirzo who is familiar with the harsh conditions and treacherous terrain, abandons the horses and unwavering, leads his small group along perilous mountain passes, in relentless pursuit are a cutthroat group of Basmachis intent on rescuing the Sultan.

Captivating cinematography highlights spectacular scenic landscapes, thrilling stunt action and wild gun blazing horse pursuits. Accompanied with a cast of oddball characters and a mod soundtrack typical of the era, the story foundation has a fascinating historical background, overall Telokhranitel is an exciting action-adventure film. Filmed on location in remote Tajikistan, the cinematic story was written by the director, his earlier film 'The Seventh Bullet' also has a similar historical setting, although it is not quite as adventurous... For classic film enthusiasts Highly Entertaining viewing...