“Zulu,” directed by Cy Endfield and starring Michael Caine, is a gripping and powerful historical drama that brings to life the remarkable events of the Battle of Rorke’s Drift during the Anglo-Zulu War. Released in 1964, the film stands as a testament to the prowess of both Caine as an actor and Cy Endfield as a filmmaker, delivering a compelling narrative and showcasing the brutal realities of war. I recall seeing this movie when I was 13yrs old, at a neighbor’s home. The Zulu chant was impressive.
Set in 1879, the film follows the events that unfold in a small British mission station called Rorke’s Drift in Natal Province, South Africa. After the devastating defeat at the Battle of Isandlwana, a small contingent of British soldiers, led by Lieutenant John Chard (played by Stanley Baker) and Lieutenant Gonville Bromhead (played by Michael Caine), find themselves under siege by thousands of Zulu warriors. The film was first shown on the 85th anniversary of the actual battle, 22 January 1964, at the Plaza Theatre in the West End of London. The opening and closing narration is spoken by Richard Burton.
One of the film’s greatest strengths lies in its ability to capture the sheer intensity and tension of the battle. The Zulu warriors, played by a cast of Zulu extras, are portrayed with ferocity and authenticity, creating a sense of impending doom for the outnumbered British soldiers. The cinematography effectively captures the vastness of the African landscape and the scale of the battle, immersing the audience in the harrowing experience faced by both sides.
Michael Caine delivers a standout performance as Lieutenant Bromhead, showcasing his early talent and foreshadowing the remarkable career that would follow. Caine’s portrayal effectively conveys Bromhead’s transformation from a reluctant and inexperienced officer to a determined leader fighting against overwhelming odds. His on-screen chemistry with Stanley Baker, who gives a commanding performance as Lieutenant Chard, adds depth to the film’s exploration of leadership and camaraderie in the face of adversity. The screenplay, co-written by Cy Endfield and John Prebble, strikes a balance between action and character development, presenting a thought-provoking examination of cultural clashes and the impact of imperialism. The dialogue is sharp and engaging, with moments of humor and introspection interspersed amidst the chaos of battle.
The movie is not without its flaws, however. The film’s portrayal of the Zulu people and their culture has been criticized for perpetuating certain stereotypes and simplifying the complexities of the historical context. Additionally, the focus on the British perspective limits the exploration of the Zulu’s motivations and experiences. Despite these shortcomings, Zulu remains an important and influential film that captures a significant moment in history. Its powerful performances, stunning visuals, and intense battle sequences continue to resonate with audiences decades after its release. It serves as a testament to the courage and resilience of both the British soldiers and the Zulu warriors, while also raising questions about the legacy of colonialism. If you get a moment, watch Zulu Dawn. Zulu Dawn is a 1979 prequel to Zulu which depicts the historical Battle of Rorke’s Drift later the same day, and stars two great actors: Burt Lancaster and Peter O’Toole.
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