Excellent

Rating: 10/10 (2 April 2013)

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.