Batbayar Chogsom is a Mongolian director and screenwriter based in Switzerland. His debut, “Out of Paradise” (2018), was awarded Best Film at the Shanghai International Film Festival. “White Flag” is his second feature that he writes and directs. Although Chogsom is a new director, his oeuvre has a clear signature stamp in how the physical space transforms into a character that bears witness to the character’s plight.

Saran and Naran are young women in their early twenties trying to start a new life in the steppe as nomads. Despite their close bond, both are troubled by a ghost from the past. As they strive to move forward, they encounter a city detective Zorig, who questions the two about a missing man. As Zorig’s investigation deepens, he is entangled in a personal and emotional web, which makes him hesitate between right and wrong.

Within the linear narrative development, Chogsom is subtle in his symbolism; the most significant is his use of environment. Together with cinematographer Lucas Graf, Chogsom creates majestic sceneries of the expansive and resilient steppes and deserts, contrasting with the restricted and disowned cityscape. “White Flag” is bold, meticulous, and artistic in its presentation. A haunting melancholic saga of a woman’s heart.

Milani Perera