Watch White Sun of the Desert

White Sun of the Desert is a Soviet-era adventure film from 1970 that has since gained iconic status in Russian cinema. Directed by Vladimir Motyl, it tells the story of a Red Army soldier named Fyodor Sukhov (Anatoliy Kuznetsov) who finds himself stranded in the desert of Central Asia. Sukhov is on leave from his unit and is supposed to be heading back to his hometown in Russia. However, his plans are disrupted when he receives a message from his superiors ordering him to escort the harem of a local sheikh (Spartak Mishulin) to safety. The task is not an easy one, as the sheikh's enemies are hot on their trail and willing to do whatever it takes to stop them.

As Sukhov attempts to guide the women to safety, he is joined by a colorful cast of characters, including a former White Army officer named Vereshchagin (Pavel Luspekayev) and a local guide named Said (Kakhi Kavsadze). Together, they must navigate treacherous terrain and fend off attacks from their enemies.

Along the way, Sukhov must also confront a personal dilemma. He is torn between his duty to the Soviet Union and his growing affection for the women he is protecting. As the group journeys deeper into the desert, Sukhov must decide where his loyalties lie and what sacrifices he is willing to make to protect those under his care.

The film is known for its stunning cinematography and sweeping vistas of the Central Asian desert. The landscape is as much a character in the film as any of the human actors, providing a stark and often unforgiving backdrop to the action.

In addition to its action-packed plot, White Sun of the Desert is also notable for its humor and lighthearted tone. The film balances moments of intense drama with slapstick comedy and tongue-in-cheek humor. For example, Vereshchagin is often portrayed as a bumbling and ineffectual character, providing a comic foil to Sukhov's more serious demeanor.

Despite its initial lukewarm reception upon release, White Sun of the Desert went on to become a beloved classic of Russian cinema. It has been credited with paving the way for the "Ostern" genre of Soviet-era adventure films, and its influence can be felt in modern Russian cinema to this day.

Overall, White Sun of the Desert is a thrilling and entertaining adventure film that offers a unique glimpse into Soviet-era cinema and the complexities of life in Central Asia. Its blend of action, humor, and drama make it a must-see for fans of classic adventure films.

White Sun of the Desert is a 1970 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7.