This is an interesting, if rather flawed, documentary. The film is at its best when it focuses on the Mongolian culture, in particular the relationship between the eagle hunter and their eagle. And the story it chooses to follow is a rather interesting one, and Nurgaiv Aishopan is likable. Most of the issues come with the film’s overall presentation. For instance, this film cannot shake off the feeling that parts of this feel staged; too many shots simply look too clean. This feels especially true when you discover that the filmmakers apparently exaggerated the elder’s resistance to the idea of a female eagle hunter. Still, this isn’t a bad documentary at all; it’s a good, if slightly manipulative film, that could’ve been something incredible.

Rating: 3.5/5