The Seventh Bullet is a Soviet war film from 1972, directed by Ali Khamraev. It is based on the Russian Civil War of the early 20th century and takes place in Central Asia after the Basmachi rebellion. The plot revolves around the conflict between the Soviet Union and the rebels led by Khairulla. Despite the setting being set post-war, The Seventh Bullet closely resembles typical Western war films due to its emphasis on tactical resourcefulness.
In the film, the Soviet Union has regained power in the area following the Basmachi rebellion, but the rebels continue to attack peaceful villages. One of the rebel leaders, Khairulla, is pitted against the local militia leader, Maxumov. At first, it seems hopeless for Maxumov as he is captured by the rebels and their men. However, he decides to give himself up to explain that Khairulla has deceived them. He hopes to turn the soldiers back to revolution, but later pursues Khairulla across a river.
At this critical moment, Maxumov must shoot his final bullet at Khairulla before he can escape. The scene is tense and gripping, with Maxumov's last chance to save his life and the fate of the people in the village hanging in the balance. The film ends with Maxumov's successful shot, but not without consequences for him and the rebels.
