Zulu

Zulu

Year: 1964

Runtime: 138 min

Language: English

Director: Cy Endfield

DramaHistoryWar

Set in South Africa, this gripping crime drama follows a veteran police officer, a seasoned detective, and a young recruit as they investigate the shocking murder of a young woman. Their pursuit of justice leads them deep into a web of corruption, exposing long-simmering racial tensions and dangerous rivalries within the community. The investigation tests their courage and challenges their understanding of the complex history surrounding the case.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Zulu (1964)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Zulu (1964). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

January 1879

The events of the film take place during the Anglo-Zulu War, specifically focusing on the Battle of Rorke's Drift. This time period was marked by colonial conflicts in Africa as British forces sought to expand their territories, leading to significant military confrontations with local tribes, notably the Zulus.

Location

Rorke's Drift, Zululand

Rorke's Drift is a small mission station located in Zululand, South Africa. It gained notoriety during the Anglo-Zulu War for the intense battle that took place there in 1879, where a small contingent of British soldiers made a stand against overwhelming Zulu forces. Today, it is remembered for its historical significance and the bravery displayed by those involved.

🏰 Historical 🌍 Africa

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:41

Main Characters – Zulu (1964)

Meet the key characters of Zulu (1964), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Lieutenant John Chard (Stanley Baker)

Lieutenant Chard is portrayed as a decisive leader who rises to the occasion when faced with the daunting task of defending Rorke's Drift. His engineering background influences his strategic thinking, allowing him to improvise defenses with limited resources. Chard exemplifies bravery and leadership, rallying the troops under extreme pressure.

👨‍✈️ Leader 🛡️ Strategic

Lieutenant Gonville Bromhead (Michael Caine)

Lieutenant Bromhead embodies a sense of military tradition, finding himself grappling with his position as subordinate to Chard. His background as an infantry officer brings tension to their dynamic, yet he ultimately showcases growth and valor as he joins in the defense efforts. Bromhead's character arc exemplifies the struggle between personal pride and the needs of the moment.

👨‍✈️ Traditional ⚔️ Proud

Private Henry Hook (James Booth)

Private Hook emerges as an unexpected hero during the battle, stepping up to lead the soldiers amidst chaos. His determination and resourcefulness are crucial in orchestrating a breakout during the fierce combat. Hook's character illustrates how bravery can manifest in surprising ways, highlighting themes of camaraderie and resilience.

👨‍ soldier 🌟 Hero

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:41

Major Themes – Zulu (1964)

Explore the central themes of Zulu (1964), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚔️ Bravery

The theme of bravery is central to the narrative, as the British soldiers at Rorke's Drift display incredible resolve in the face of overwhelming odds. Their determination to defend the mission, despite the imminent threat of annihilation, illustrates the human spirit's capacity for courage. This theme is highlighted through acts of heroism, especially among characters like Private Hook.

💔 Sacrifice

Sacrifice emerges as a poignant theme, as many soldiers give their all to protect their comrades and the mission station. The loss of life and the heroic deeds are reminders of the heavy toll war takes on individuals and communities. This theme resonates with the moral complexities faced by the characters during the desperate fight.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:41

Unlock the Full Story of Zulu

Don't stop at just watching — explore Zulu in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Zulu is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Zulu Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Zulu, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Zulu Summary

Zulu Timeline

Track the full timeline of Zulu with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Zulu Timeline

More About Zulu

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Zulu: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Zulu

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