The film depicts the Battle of Rorke’s Drift in 1879, an important British victory in a campaign against Zulu warriors in South Africa. The Zulus had just defeated the British at the Battle of Isandlwana — one of the first victories of an indigenous army against a European force.
The film also portrays the Zulus as the heroes in the end, noting that they were merciful and respectful warriors.
A widely-criticized British government project called Prevent, which aims to stop extremism, included the film Zulu on a list “as a ‘key text’ for ‘white nationalists’ and ‘supremacists’,” the UK Daily Mail noted.
Caine, 90, responded via the UK Spectator: “‘That is the biggest load of bullshit I have ever heard.”
[That’s an understatement. I think the film is brilliant, in large part because “Zulu” — like “Patton” would later do — weaves themes about the futility of war into an astounding presentation of historical events. None of the men want to be there, but they do their duty magnificently and with real valor. As did the Zulus, who miscalculated the defensive capabilities of Rorke’s Drift, and who in the end salute the British forces as the Zulus withdraw. If you’ve never seen it, it’s a must-watch, especially for Caine’s performance. — Ed]
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