Battleward

by K. Finely

In the annals of war cinema, few films have captured the essence of battle with the blend of raw intensity and historical depth as Cy Endfield's 1964 epic, "Zulu." Based on the Battle of Rorke's Drift during the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879, "Zulu" is not merely a film; it is a cinematic monument, commemorating bravery, strategy, and the complexities of cross-cultural encounters.

The film opens with a hauntingly beautiful Zulu chant, setting the stage for what is to become a masterful exposition of tension and valor. The narrative centers on a British outpost in Natal, South Africa, where a small contingent of British soldiers, led by Lieutenant John Chard (played by Stanley Baker) and Lieutenant Gonville Bromhead (a breakthrough role for Michael Caine), stand against overwhelming odds. The Zulu warriors, numbering in the thousands, present a formidable force, intent on reclaiming their land from colonial rule.

What sets "Zulu" apart is its commitment to authenticity and respect for both sides of the conflict. The Zulu warriors are not depicted as mere antagonists; instead, the film goes to lengths to portray their courage, tactical ingenuity, and the dignity of their fight. This nuanced portrayal owes much to the consultation with Zulu Chief Buthelezi, who appears in the film as his own ancestor, King Cetshwayo. The battle sequences are choreographed with meticulous detail, showcasing the Zulus' formidable combat strategies against the disciplined volley fire of the British redcoats.

The cinematography, utilizing the vast landscapes of South Africa, captures the isolating expanse of the battlefield, heightening the sense of siege and the daunting prospect of survival against such odds. The score by John Barry is both stirring and evocative, augmenting the film’s emotional depth and the relentless pace of the conflict.

Performances across the board are sterling, with Baker and Caine providing a study in contrasting leadership styles — Baker's stoic, methodical Chard juxtaposed against Caine's aristocratic, somewhat cavalier Bromhead. Their evolution from mutual skepticism to respect is a compelling arc, emblematic of the broader themes of unity and resilience.

However, "Zulu" is not without its critiques. The film has been subject to scrutiny for its colonialist perspectives and the romanticization of empire, criticisms that are not unwarranted given the era of its production. Yet, it also offers a canvas for reflection on the follies of imperialism and the universal valor found in the defense of one’s home and people.

Ultimately, "Zulu" stands as a pillar in the genre of historical war dramas, offering more than just the spectacle of battle. It invites viewers to ponder the complexities of heroism, the nuances of cultural conflict, and the human cost of colonial ventures. Despite its moments of historical embellishment, the film remains a compelling narrative, enriched by its performances, its aesthetic achievements, and its respectful homage to the spirit of those who fought at Rorke’s Drift.

Here are 10 lesser-known facts about "Zulu" that might pique your interest: 1. Michael Caine's First Major Role: Before "Zulu," Michael Caine was relatively unknown. He played Lieutenant Gonville Bromhead, marking his breakthrough role. Caine initially auditioned for a smaller part but ended up being cast in one of the lead roles, dramatically changing the trajectory of his acting career.

2. Accurate Depiction of Zulu Warriors: The filmmakers went to great lengths to portray the Zulu warriors accurately. They enlisted the help of Zulu Chief Buthelezi, who also played his great-grandfather, King Cetshwayo, in the film. This ensured cultural and historical authenticity, especially in the depiction of Zulu combat tactics and rituals.

3. Real Descendants: Many of the Zulu extras were actually descendants of the warriors who fought in the battle. This added a layer of authenticity and depth to the film that few others can boast.

4. Filmed on Location: Unlike many historical epics of its time, "Zulu" was filmed on location near where the actual Battle of Rorke's Drift took place, in Natal, South Africa. This choice added to the film's realism and immersion.

5. Richard Burton's Involvement: Originally, Richard Burton was considered for a role in the film. Although he didn't end up in the cast, he narrated the opening and closing sequences, lending his iconic voice to frame the story.

6. Director’s Connection: The director, Cy Endfield, had a personal connection to the story. Fascinated by the battle since he was a child, Endfield co-wrote the screenplay and was deeply involved in the project, making the film a labor of love.

7. Historical Inaccuracies for Dramatic Effect: While "Zulu" strives for historical accuracy, some liberties were taken for dramatic effect. For example, the portrayal of the Zulus as a relentless mass attacking wave after wave is a bit exaggerated, and the character of Private Hook was depicted as a malingerer and thief, which was not true to his real-life counterpart.

8. Use of Techniscope: "Zulu" was shot using the Techniscope format, which allowed for a wider aspect ratio. This gave the film its epic visual scale, especially during the battle scenes, making the Zulu charge scenes more dramatic and immersive.

9. Minimal Use of CGI: Given its time of production, "Zulu" relied on practical effects and real extras to stage its massive battle scenes. The absence of CGI meant that every warrior seen on screen was an actual person, contributing to the film's raw and authentic feel.

10. Cultural Impact and Legacy: Despite some controversy over its portrayal of colonialism and the Zulu warriors, the film has had a lasting impact on both British and Zulu cultures. It's celebrated for its epic storytelling and has been studied for its depiction of leadership, bravery, and the complexities of historical conflict.