For fans of war films based on real-life events, the 1964 British classic Zulu is now streaming for free on ITVX. The film, often overlooked in discussions of the genre's greats, has achieved cult status since its release.
Plot and Historical Context
Written and directed by Cy Endfield, Zulu portrays the 1879 Battle of Rorke's Drift during the Anglo-Zulu War. A modest British garrison of approximately 150 troops held their isolated supply station in South Africa against 3,000 to 4,000 Zulu warriors.
The film stars Michael Caine in his first major leading role alongside Stanley Baker, with a gifted ensemble cast including Jack Hawkins, Ulla Jacobsson, James Booth, Nigel Green, Paul Daneman, Glynn Edwards, Ivor Emmanuel, and Patrick Magee. Richard Burton provides narration.
Critical and Audience Acclaim
With a near-perfect approval rating of 97% on Rotten Tomatoes, Zulu has been hailed as one of the greatest war films of all time. One critic calls it a brilliantly made dramatisation of Rorke's Drift, capturing the spirit for which the battle is remembered. Another describes it as a very exciting war drama about patriotism and resistance.
Audiences are equally impressed. One viewer comments: "This legendary piece of film-making is as good as it gets on every level. The actors performances are faultless, the scenery breath-taking and the story is all the more incredible because it really happened." A user review on IMDB states: "Simply an incredible film. When one sees this film, you know great pains were taken in the making of this masterpiece."
Michael Caine's Reflections
In his 2010 autobiography The Elephant to Hollywood, Sir Michael Caine reflects: "Zulu represents my biggest piece of luck in showbusiness, but it's also a movie that has withstood the test of time to achieve near-cult status. It is one of the first British war films to treat a native enemy with dignity." He adds: "The heroism of the British is celebrated, but so is the heroism of the Zulu nation. Lack of jingoism means it resonates for a modern audience in a way other British war films don't any longer."
Another fan lauds the film: "Zulu is a fine film; one of the greatest war movies ever made. It is a tale of remarkable human courage in the face of adversity, on both sides." An audience review on Rotten Tomatoes reads: "This is one of the most thrilling war movies ever made. The acting, directing, story line, and action definitely make this a fully riveting film."
Zulu is available to stream free on ITVX.
