A magnificant Historically Accurate War Film Of British Colonialism

Rating: 10/10 (25 January 1999)

A wonderful film about a detachment of 130 men of the 24th Regiment of Foot (which was wiped out the previous day at the Battle of Isandwlhana by 24,000 Zulu warriors) which fends off a band of 4,000 Zulus wanting to wipe them out too. Hopelessly outnumbered, the strong leadership of Col. Chard and Col. Bromhead rally the soldiers to face their fear and their certain doom while guarding a supply depot and Hospital.
With a battle that takes up 1.5 hours of the film, staggering countryside, and wonderful battle sequences, this film brings to light the strength of man, honor, and facing fear straight on.
It is one of Michael Caine's first movies and helped launch his career. The entire film is incredibly historically accurate and vivid. Highly recommended.