Having visited the battlefields myself, (including Isandlwana), I can say that 'Zulu' tries hard to be accurate. It is difficult because of technological constraints and the audience of the time but the film does try. Importantly, it gives credibility to the Zulu warriors. In fact, as many Zulus volunteered to make the film, this adds credibility. Bromhead, played by Caine, plays a very good part, and is very entertaining. Artistic licence is again used, as he was fairly deaf, but his relationship with Chard carries the film very well. Stanley Baker is excellent as Chard, and he clearly was moved by the entire experience, getting involved in the history after the film. If you want to see a classic British imperial film, this is it. It was made to celebrate the heroism of the British soldiers who unfortunately were stationed there. A particular quote from one of the Boer characters is particularly poignant incidentally. A visit to the battlefields is highly recommended, especially to hear about the preceding Battle of Isandlwana.
Reviews
2 Reviews
Stand Off
(2011)
A pleasant film to watch
20 March 2013
Despite the low rating, I watched this because the storyline sounded interesting. Northern Ireland, crime, SAS...and a comedy. The plot is simple and you can work out most of what happens during the film. However, the script is entertaining, with a few laugh out loud lines. Colm Meaney plays his usual role, a dry, cynical detective. He has some of the better lines and generally carries the film. Brendan Fraser is fine but his role could have been developed further. Without giving things away, his background could have had more of an impact. He probably deserved to have more funny lines as well. Negatives - quite why the SAS are there I don't know. This could have been made into more of a story. Either make them contribute to the organised chaos, (making things worse or better, I don't mind), or omit them from the film entirely. This is probably more a British film than one for everybody. Perhaps the review which criticises the film is more the latter. I would give this about a 7/ 7.5 to be honest, watchable, enjoyable but not great.
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