The Scythian (2018) – A Tale of Honor, Betrayal, and Survival

A brutal journey of survival where enemies become brothers in a dying world of warriors.

The Scythian (2018) is a Russian historical fantasy film directed by Rustam Mosafir, blending mythology, epic battles, and moral dilemmas. Set during a time when the ancient Scythian tribes were fading from power, the film dives into a world of ruthless warriors, shifting alliances, and the eternal struggle between survival and honor. With a dark, gritty atmosphere, it reimagines history as a brutal yet captivating tale of men caught between old traditions and new forces reshaping their world.

The story follows Lutobor, a warrior who becomes entangled in a deadly conflict after his family is kidnapped by merciless assassins known as the “Wolves of Ares.” To save them, Lutobor is forced to ally with his prisoner, a captured Scythian guide named Weislav. What begins as a hostile relationship transforms into an uneasy brotherhood as the two men journey across treacherous landscapes, facing enemies, betrayal, and the raw cruelty of mankind. Their bond reveals the complexity of loyalty and the blurred lines between foe and friend.

The film’s strength lies in its intense visuals and unrelenting tone. Battles are bloody and visceral, echoing the harshness of life in a lawless age. Cinematography captures the wildness of the steppe, with sweeping shots that highlight the emptiness and danger of the world the characters inhabit. The costumes and weaponry draw from historical inspiration, adding authenticity to the mythical atmosphere. At the same time, the haunting score enhances the feeling of a doomed, violent era in transition.

While The Scythian is not a traditional historical account, it thrives as a symbolic narrative. It depicts the clash between the old Scythian way of life and the encroaching new order, mirroring how cultures disappear yet leave behind legends. The transformation of Lutobor, forced to reconsider his values and alliances, mirrors the cultural and personal survival struggles of the time.

The film resonates as both an action spectacle and a meditation on human nature. Its exploration of trust, vengeance, and the choices men make in desperate times elevates it beyond a simple sword-and-sandals tale. For fans of brutal epics like Conan the Barbarian or Apocalypto, this film offers a uniquely Slavic perspective, where myth and history blur into a gripping odyssey.