Ulan

This documentary follows a young Mongolian boy named Ulan as he experiences his first year of school in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar. After leaving his nomadic family and their yurt on the steppe, Ulan navigates the challenges of urban life and the structured environment of a boarding school. The film captures his struggles to adapt to a new culture, his longing for his family, and his eventual growth and resilience.

Ulan was widely acclaimed by critics for its sensitive portrayal of a child's transition and its beautiful cinematography. Reviewers praised its intimate look at Mongolian culture and the universal themes of childhood, adaptation, and family.

• Praised for its intimate and empathetic portrayal of a young boy's journey.
• Applauded for its stunning visuals capturing the contrast between nomadic life and the city.
• Commended for exploring universal themes of childhood and adaptation with sensitivity.

Google audience: Audiences found the film to be a touching and visually rich experience, particularly appreciating the authentic depiction of Ulan's emotional journey and the cultural insights it offered. Many viewers were moved by the boy's resilience and the film's tender approach to his challenges.

Nominated for the Golden Bear at the 2019 Berlin International Film Festival.

Director Byambasuren Davaa previously directed 'The Story of the Weeping Camel', which was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.