Rent Zulu (1964)

Classic Boys Own War Drama - Zulu review by GI

A firm favourite among many. A Boys Own war adventure based on a real events and characters although, like all films based on a historical incident, it's not to be considered an accurate reconstruction. Indeed many of the characters are much different from their real counterparts and the battle itself was fought much differently. It's interesting that this film often stirs a false sense of patriotism from those who tend to rely on cinema for their history lessons. This is the story of the 1879 battle of Rorke's Drift, a small missionary station and hospital in the heart of Zulu country in South Africa. Understanding the British intentions of colonial suppression over their traditional land the Zulu nation launch an attack against the British army and destroy over a thousand troops before moving onto the isolated mission where less than a hundred soldiers are stationed. An inexperienced Engineer officer, Chard (Stanley Baker) organises a defence of the station aided by posh officer, Bromhead (Michael Caine - in his first major film role). The film is beautifully shot and the battle, which takes up most of the film, is brilliantly edited. It's gritty and exciting stuff and very rousing too. For those who pay attention the film does condemn the British presence and tries to highlight the broad racist culture of colonialism. But as a stirring war adventure this is a film that you'll struggle to beat. With a great support cast that includes Jack Hawkins and the real Zulu King Cetawayo this is a film that, if you get a chance, is worth seeing on a big cinema screen for the sheer spectacle of it. If you have by some chance never seen this then it's a must see film.

Zulu - Film of Battle of Rorke's Drift. Watched it before it is banned due to political correctness. - Zulu review by OL

Zulu - Film of Battle of Rorke's Drift - Unfortunately a film like this will not be made again. A Kipling like story of British Colonialism in 19th Century Africa. The first starring role for Michael Caine, Stanley Baker in main role.

A review on here said the fight scenes are unrealistic. This is the early 60s not the 2000s. Epic photography of Africa, gets into action quickly as well as good explanation of who each character is. Have watched multiple times, probably not for people if they only like Marvel films.

Historical Epic. - Zulu review by Steve

Sprawling, epic account of the defence of the Christian mission at Rorke's Drift during the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879 when 150 British soldiers armed with rifles held their ground against an attack from over 3000 Zulu warriors with spears. The imposing production was shot on location in Natal near the site of the battle. The many Zulu extras were descendants of the actual fighters.

The film is respectful to both sides and while the names of the eleven recipients of the Victoria Cross are solemnly intoned (by Richard Burton) at the conclusion, it is critical of the barbarity of empire. The combat is not staged with much realism in close up, but looks spectacular in the long shots, enhanced by the evocative sound mix.

Performances are variable. This was Michael Caine big break, but he is an unconvincing officer. Jack Hawkins is stuck with an impossible role as a drunken missionary, and it's a relief when he exits the action. Stanley Baker is the best of the leads, and Nigel Green catches the eye. But crucially, all the cast contribute to the vivid visual pageant.

The ostentatious British redcoats look magnificent against the baby blue Technicolor sky, as does the line of Zulu warriors stretched across the CinemaScope horizon. John Barry's score pumps up the bloody combat. This is a long, rousing blockbuster, which takes a few liberties with history. But its reflections on the futility of war will always be relevant.