All the Wild Horses

An exhilarating thrill ride across the untamed Mongolian outback, All the Wild Horses, directed by Ivo Marloh, documents a group of competitors from around the globe as they take part in the Mongol Derby, the world’s longest and toughest race spanning 1,000km in a perilous environment. A testament of human and animal endurance, this film captures the lengths some will go to to achieve their goals, even if it means braving mountains, deserts, dehydration and wolves.

Faced with numerous hardships throughout the eight-day race, these riders are driven by a strong sense of optimism and comradery, which lends some levity to their situation. Seeing this group of complete strangers form life-long bonds makes for a joyous and entertaining experience as we get to know them ourselves and share in their victories, no matter how small. Although viewers may chuckle while watching someone struggle to handle a stubborn horse, it’s precisely these lighter points that make the lows hit that much harder. These are real people who want nothing more than to complete this journey and are willing to push their bodies over their physical limits to do so. Therefore, every injury (serious or not) and unfortunate circumstance reinforces the severity of the situation and determination of the competitors.

Whilst the main focus of this documentary is on the unbreakable human spirit, it never forgets that it is also about a tense race between extremely competitive riders. With penalties at stake if contestants ride too late or horses don’t pass strict vet checks to ensure their safety, the entire outcome of the Derby can change in a second. From the start of the competition, it’s made clear just how much is on the line and this only builds to a gripping climax as the head-to-head nears its final leg.

When the film isn’t wrapped up in the race’s drama, it acts as a scenic snapshot of the Mongolian wilderness. Through lush backdrops complete with a variety of wildlife, accompanied by traditional music, we’re given ample time to relax and enjoy the ride before we’re thrown right back in to the thick of things.

A heart-pounding adventure across the Mongolian wilderness, All the Wild Horses is an incredible depiction of the unbridled human spirit and a captivating documentary.

Andrew Murray

All the Wild Horses is released nationwide on 8^th June 2018.

Read more reviews from our Glasgow Film Festival 2018 coverage here.

For further information about the event visit the Glasgow Film Festival website here.

Watch the trailer for All the Wild Horses here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2LSOWYSk4Y