A Time for Drunken Horses

A Time for Drunken Horses

Year: 2000

Runtime: 80 min

Language: Kurdish

Director: Bahman Ghobadi

DramaWar

In war-torn Kurdistan, a desperate family's survival hangs precariously in balance as their youngest member fights for life. With time running out, siblings make a heart-wrenching pact to secure a life-saving operation by marrying off their eldest sister to an Iraqi willing to care for the boy. But at the border, the family's rejection sparks a perilous quest against the clock.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – A Time for Drunken Horses (2000)
Trace every key event in A Time for Drunken Horses (2000) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.
1

Tragic Loss

The Kurdish family experiences a traumatic loss with the death of their parents. This event drastically alters their lives, leading to immense grief and the challenge of survival.

2

Ayoub Takes Charge

In the wake of their parents' demise, Ayoub, the eldest son, steps up to lead the family. He takes on various jobs, demonstrating resilience and determination to provide for his younger siblings.

3

Madi's Critical Condition

Ayoub's brother, Madi, faces a dire medical situation that necessitates urgent surgery due to his handicap. The family's financial struggles make the situation even more precarious.

4

Desperate Measures

To gather enough funds for Madi's operation, Ayoub resorts to smuggling truck tires across the perilous Iran-Iraq border. This risky decision showcases his desperation and commitment to his brother's wellbeing.

Iran-Iraq border
5

Funds Fall Short

Despite Ayoub's relentless efforts in smuggling, he fails to accumulate the necessary money for Madi's surgery. This setback deepens the family's struggles and raises the stakes even higher.

6

A Difficult Decision

Facing the reality of their situation, Ayoub's uncle makes the heart-wrenching choice to marry off their sister. This decision is made to use the groom's family's funds for Madi's urgent medical needs.

7

Refusal from Groom's Family

When they arrive for the arranged marriage, the groom's mother coldly rejects Madi, offering only a mule as compensation. This harsh turn of events intensifies Ayoub's resolve to care for his brother.

8

The Journey Begins

Ayoub decides to take the mule to Iraq, aiming to sell it for a better price to fund Madi's surgery. This journey symbolizes his unwavering dedication and hope amidst adversity.

Iraq
9

Partnership with Smugglers

On his way to Iraq, Ayoub teams up with a group of smugglers who also use mules for transporting goods. This alliance offers him support in navigating the challenging landscape.

10

Harsh Winter Conditions

The smugglers resort to feeding their mules whisky to keep them agile during the brutal winter. This dangerous method highlights the extreme lengths they go to in order to survive the harsh environment.

11

Ambushed on the Journey

The group's journey takes a perilous turn when they are ambushed during their trek. The chaotic event tests Ayoub's courage and resourcefulness in a life-threatening situation.

12

Narrow Escape

Amidst the chaos of the ambush, Ayoub uses quick thinking and bravery to escape. This narrow escape underscores his resilience and determination to ensure Madi receives the surgery he desperately needs.

13

Crossing the Border

In a final act of hope, Ayoub and Madi are seen crossing the border together. This moment signifies their journey towards a better future, despite the immense challenges they have faced along the way.

Iran-Iraq border

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 12:25

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