Dersu Uzala is a 1975 Soviet-Japanese co-production directed by Akira Kurosawa, based on the book of the same name by Vladimir Arsenyev. The film follows the story of a Russian Army explorer named Captain Arseniev who is sent on a mission to map out the uncharted wilderness of Siberia. During his travels, he comes across a Goldi man named Dersu Uzala, who agrees to serve as his guide and protector.
As Captain Arseniev and Dersu continue their journey, they form a strong bond, with Dersu teaching the captain valuable skills for survival in the harsh wilderness. Dersu is shown to have a deep respect for nature and the environment, and his unique way of life sometimes puts him at odds with the more civilized Captain Arseniev.
The film serves as a powerful meditation on the clash between modernity and traditionalism, with Dersu representing the wisdom and knowledge of a vanishing way of life in Siberia. Eventually, the two men must part ways, but their friendship continues to endure.
Dersu Uzala won the 1975 Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and is considered one of Kurosawa's masterpieces. The film is notable for its stunning cinematography and its authentic portrayal of life in the Siberian wilderness.