Poetic Film Review: Taras Bulba (1962)

In Ukraine's fields of golden grain,
A history tumultuous, a tale of pain,
Invaded and plundered, century after century's stain,
A curse that follows, like a lingering refrain.

The Cossacks rode, with fierce warrior cry,
Against oppressors, their spirit would not die,
Taras Bulba led, with heart full of fire,
A hero's tale, in Gogol's timeless desire.

The Ottoman Empire's expansive might,
Catholic Poland's rule, a constant fight,
The Orthodox Christians, with independence bold,
Their story woven, in a narrative to be told.

In the 16th century's battleground and strife,
Taras Bulba fought, for his people's life,
Betrayal and vengeance, a father's burning flame,
His sons sent forth, to learn from their enemies' game.

Andrei fell in love, with a Polish noblewoman fair,
Natalia Dubrov, with beauty beyond compare,
Loyalty torn asunder, like the land itself divided wide,
As tensions rose high in Kiev city where East meets West inside.

J. Lee Thompson directed this epic historical film so grand
With challenges many during its production across distant lands
Argentina stood for Ukraine where gauchos played the part
Authenticity found on distant shores so far from Kiev’s ancient heart

Seven million dollars budget spoke of production values high
Cavalry sequences left audiences breathless wondering why
Sixteenth-century Kiev recreated within Californian studio walls
Detail attention commended though screenplays simplicity enthralls

Yet it was Franz Waxman’s musical score elevating this tale anew
“Ride to Dubno” theme one finest compositions heard by few
Though some choices felt misplaced traditional Russian songs sang English lyrics too

Taras Bulba stands an entertaining blend action romance melodrama combined
Vintage Hollywood cinema treasure cherished fans hearts forever aligned

(Note: The review in its original form can be read here.)

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