The Maid ("La Nana")

Director: Sebastian Silva
Starring: Catalina Saavedra, Claudia Celedon, Mariana Loyola
Year: 2009

Live-in maid for a wealthy family in Chile struggles to come to terms with her world after 20 years of service when her employer hires a second maid to help.

Comments: Very insightful and poignant, the film contrasts class distinctions through a modern lense. Shot well with incredible acting performances that convey an almost documentary-style realness. Amazing performance by Saavedra as the Maid. Would not be surprised if this is Silva's autobiographical view of his childhood.

Recommended.

Exploring the Deserts of the Earth

Director: Michael Martin
Starring: Michael Martin, Elke Wallner
Year: 2007

In this documentary, a couple, Michael Martin, a photographer, and Elke Wallner, a filmmaker, take on the challenge of visiting all the deserts of the world, in one long trip over 900 days.

Comments: This incredible journey took Martin and Wallner across all the deserts through 5 continents over a 3 year period, connecting incredible landscapes with the people who inhabit them. With amazing fortitude and endurance, the couple completed the trip on a motorcycle with no escort vehicle or special supplies.

Recommended.

Mongol: The Rise of Genghis Khan

Director: Sergey Bodrov
Starring: Tadanobu Asano, Khulan Chuluun
Year: 2007

First of a planned trilogy recounting the life of Genghis Khan.

Comments: Set in Mongolia and beautifully shot. In the film, Genghis is a nice guy, who is picked on mercilessly.

Recommended.