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Once in the Desert, like so many Russian war films, takes a down to earth glimpse at the awfulness of war. This film does not glorify war, it does not glamorise it.Certainly, sacrifice is seen as heroic but in a very modest sense. In...
Movie spotlight
Once In The Desert
2022
Movie
121 min
Russian
The films follows a Syrian War Explosive Ordnance Disposal team who are targeted by ISIS militants while they prepare the recently liberated historic site of Palmyra to hold a symbolic concert of the Mariinsky Symphony Orchestra. The peacekeeping event can only be held in Palmyra that has been severely damaged by the terrorists only if the ancient city and the roads leading to it are defused. The EOD team clears the way one kilometer at a time. But the closer they get to the center of Palmyra, the more destructive the explosives. Tension grows between the young team Captain and the most experienced of the EOD experts. And yet, despite their differences, when the team falls into an ambush and the Captain goes missing, it’s the experienced sapper that sets out to search for him.
Insights
IMDb6.5/10
Director: Jeff Tan•Genres: Drama, Family
Plot Summary
A poignant drama centered on a young boy named Kian who is on the verge of disappearing from his family. As the desert sun beats down, Kian embarks on a journey that tests his resilience and his connection to his loved ones. The narrative explores themes of belonging, familial bonds, and the search for identity in a harsh yet beautiful landscape.
Critical Reception
Once In The Desert received a mixed to positive reception, with critics often highlighting its emotional depth and visual storytelling, while some noted pacing issues. Audiences generally responded well to its sensitive portrayal of childhood struggles and family dynamics.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its atmospheric cinematography and evocative depiction of the desert setting.
Commended for its sensitive exploration of a child's emotional world and family relationships.
Some viewers found the narrative slow-paced at times, wishing for more dynamic plot development.
Google audience: Audience reviews are not widely available or aggregated on Google for this title.
Fun Fact
The film was shot in the Wadi Rum desert in Jordan, known for its dramatic sandstone mountains and red sand, which provided a visually stunning backdrop.
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