By Brenda Phelps

Special to The Pilot

The Sunrise Theater will show "Mongol," illuminating the life and legend of Genghis Khan, in a stunning historical epic. The film was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film in the 2008 Academy Awards and was created by Russian filmmaker Sergei Bodrov.

"Note the different schedule for this film," says a spokesman.

It plays Monday, Sept. 8, through Friday, Sept. 12. There is no show Saturday showing, but the film continues Sunday, Sept. 14, and Monday, Sept. 15. Shows are 7:30 p.m. each evening and at 2:30 p.m. Sunday.

Based on leading scholarly accounts, "Mongol" delves into the dramatic and harrowing early years of the ruler, who was born as Temudgin. From Khan's perilous childhood to the battle that sealed his destiny, the film paints a multidimensional portrait of the future conqueror, revealing him not as the evil brute of hoary stereotype but as an inspiring fearless and visionary leader.

"Filmed in the very lands that gave birth to Genghis Khan, 'Mongol' transports us back to a distant and exotic period in world history to a nomad's landscape of endless space, climatic extremes and ever-present danger," says the spokesman.

Young Japanese actor Asano Tadanobu captures the inner fire that enabled a hunted boy to become a legendary conqueror. Asano's achievement is matched by those of his co-stars, including the radiant newcomer, Khulan Chuluun as Temudgin's courageous and spirited wife Borte. The foundation on which so much of Khan's greatness rested was his relationship with his wife, his lifelong love and most trusted adviser. Other actors include Chinese actor, Honglei Sun, as the Mongol chieftain Jamukha, Temudgin's dearest friend and deadliest enemy.

The film is rated R and lasts just over two hours. The film is subtitled.

The Sunrise Theater is located at 250 NW Broad Street. Ticket prices are $7 for adults ($6 for matinees) and $5 for children under 12.

Refreshments are available. Movies at the Sunrise are commercial-free. Contact the theater at (910) 692-3611 or www.sunrisetheater.com.