Rustam and Suhrab

Synopsis

Rustam and Suhrab is a 1972 Soviet drama directed by Manas Imanguliev, based on the timeless Persian epic tale from Ferdowsi's Shahnameh. The film explores the tragic story of the legendary hero Rustam and his son Suhrab, whom he unknowingly fathers. Set against a backdrop of ancient Persia, the narrative delves into themes of fate, identity, honor, and the profound consequences of misunderstanding and fate’s cruel twists. With Bimbulat Vatayev portraying Rustam, the movie vividly captures the emotional depth and cultural richness of the original epic, bringing to life the timeless conflict and poignant drama between father and son through powerful performances and atmospheric cinematography.

Cast

• 

  Bimbulat Vatayev

  Rustam

• 

  Khashim Gadoyev

  Sukhrab

• 

  Svetlana Norbayeva

  Tahmina

• 

  Otar Koberidze

  Kavoos

• 

  Alim Khodzhayev

  Poet

• 

  Abdusalom Rakhimov

  Gozhdehem

Reviews

Rustam and Suhrab received a mixed to positive reception among critics and viewers. On IMDb, the film holds a respectable rating of 7.9/10, indicating generally favorable audience feedback. Many viewers praise the movie for its faithful adaptation of the Persian epic, its strong performances, and the evocative visual style that immerses audiences in ancient Persia. Critics have highlighted Bimbulat Vatayev’s commanding portrayal of Rustam as a standout element that brings gravitas to the film. However, some contemporary critics note that the pacing may feel slow to modern viewers accustomed to fast-moving narratives. Rotten Tomatoes does not list an official critic score for the film, reflecting its somewhat niche release and limited international exposure. On Metacritic, the film has not been rated due to its vintage status and limited retrospective reviews. Overall, Rustam and Suhrab is regarded as a culturally significant work that resonates well with fans of historical epics and classic world cinema, despite some stylistic elements that may challenge mainstream tastes.

See also

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