The wildly improbable mercenary adventure The Wild Geese is preparing for takeoff once more as this cult 1978 classic returns to cinemas across the UK and Ireland. Directed by Andrew McLaglen, the film features an all-star lineup of Richard Burton, Roger Moore, and Richard Harris as ageing soldiers of fortune embarking on what can only be described as an utterly preposterous African mission.
A Star-Studded Cast Past Their Prime
When The Wild Geese first landed in cinemas in 1978, its leading men were already showing their years. Burton, Moore, and Harris don military berets and smoke cigars with rakish style, but there's a distinct sense they might be more comfortable enjoying a long lunch at London's famous Langan's Brasserie than crawling through African jungles.
The film pushes audience credibility to its absolute limits, particularly during a parachute training sequence that expects viewers to believe Roger Moore could jump from a height, hit the ground, and simply get up again. The moment is so unconvincing that Moore's trademark raised eyebrow seems to be commenting on the absurdity itself as a drill sergeant barks: "You are jumping from an aeroplane not a whorehouse window!"
The Mercenary Mission Unfolds
Rooted in the strange 1970s fascination with mercenary soldiers in Africa - a trend sparked by Frederick Forsyth's bestselling novel The Dogs of War - the plot follows our three "amigos" as they're recruited by sinister banker Sir Edward Matherson, played by Stewart Grainger.
Their mission takes them to the fictional central African nation of Zembala, where they're tasked with overthrowing the military regime to restore liberal black president Julius Limbani, portrayed by Winston Ntshona. The supposedly noble cause masks Sir Edward's true motivation: ensuring Limbani's sympathy towards his copper mining interests.
The film's political complexities deepen with Hardy Krüger's portrayal of a South African mercenary who uses offensive language towards Limbani, yet the pair develop an unlikely bromance that sees Limbani praising white people to the skies. John Kani appears in a smaller role as one of their African soldiers, while Frank Finlay delivers a spirited performance as an Irish priest who initially despises the mercenaries but ultimately aids their cause.
A Dated But Enduring Adventure
In spirit, The Wild Geese represents one of the last World War II-style boy's own adventures, though its casual cynicism and reactionary politics firmly date it as a product of its time. The real-life mercenary "Mad" Mike Hoare served as consultant on this entirely absurd fantasy, adding a layer of authenticity to the otherwise implausible proceedings.
Though Burton and company operate under the assumption they're on the side of the angels, their mission descends into chaos before our heroes ultimately achieve their revenge. The film's blend of star power, action sequences, and questionable politics has ensured its place as a cult classic that continues to fascinate audiences decades later.
The Wild Geese returns to UK and Irish cinemas from 14 November, offering a new generation the chance to experience this outrageous caper on the big screen and existing fans an opportunity to revisit the craggy charms of Burton, Moore, and Harris in their mercenary prime.
