Random review I wrote 10 years ago
Ulzhan (2007 Volker Schlöndorff)
A road movie, character play, a mysterious stranger in an unfamiliar land, Charles is a man on a mission. He arrives in Kazakhstan by car, but is soon heading east by foot. Despite, or is it because of, his mission he shows little care for anything, his passport, possessions, his life, those he meets. As with all road movies it is the journey that is important, and a key part of the journey is the people encountered. Ulzhan and Sha are Charles's 2 main encounters. Charles' journey is not an action packed one, nor is it serene. The fascination with this movie is what draws the characters together and scenes of Kazakhstan. Unfortunately what draws Ulzhan to Charles does not seem to have a discernible reason and this is a failing of the movie. Do not expect answers. The movie also dragged a little near the end, not long after some questions are answered. Maybe this is what holds your interest.
Why See It: You are interested in seeing the unexplained journey of a careless man.