Living conditions are deteriorating for those
who lead a rural existence in north-western
Mongolia. China’s industry is expanding –
even into this inhospitable region – and
the government is pressurising Monoglian
shepherds to give up their nomadic way of
life, move to the nearby towns and settle down
as farmers.
Beautiful and self-confident Tuya refuses
to leave her pastureland. She’d rather stay here
with her disabled husband, two children and
one hundred sheep, and continue to pursue
a life of privation in the endless expanse of
the steppe. But all the hard work begins to take
its toll on Tuya.
One day, she falls ill and for the first time
begins to consider a divorce, because this would
enable her to find someone to help her to look
after Bater, the two children and their one
hundred sheep. However, none of her suitors
are prepared to take on Bater – until Tuya’s old
classmate Baolier arrives on the scene.
But, far away from the steppe and separated
from his family, Bater finds it impossible to
get used to life at the home. In desperation
he slashes his wrists. When the news reaches
Tuya, she realises that the time has come for
her to act…
Berlin International Film Festival Programme
*Winner Golden Bear Award,
Berlin International Film Festival 2007
