DVD Classics Double-Feature: Zulu Dawn and Zulu

22 January 1879 has been described by historians as "one of the most calamitous days" in British history. 22 January 1879 also has been described as "one of the most renowned days" in British history. Therein lies a paradox—a paradox splendidly captured by this double-feature of classic films, "Zulu" and "Zulu Dawn."

Both films are set within miles of each other in southern Africa, occur on the same day, 22 January 1879, and recreate battles in the same conflict: the Anglo-Zulu War. The paradox arises from the very different outcomes—ignominious defeat in one and heroic resistance in the other—of the battles depicted in the films.

"Zulu Dawn," filmed in 1979, is a prequel to the 1964 classic "Zulu." The former focuses on the disastrous—for Britain anyway—Battle of Isandlwana that took place on the morning of 22 January while the latter chronicles the heroic British defense at Rorke's Drift in the afternoon and evening of 22 January.

The Anglo-Zulu War was controversial from the start as the British authorities in Natal—on the southern border of Zululand—ignored their government's instructions to proceed cautiously and instead deliberately provoked a war. The British bungled the initial invasion of Zululand—the subject of "Zulu Dawn"—out of overconfidence (bordering on arrogance), poor intelligence, and inexcusable tactical mistakes. The disaster at Isandlwana where the Zulu overran a British column and killed some 1300 troops reverberated across the Empire and led to the downfall of Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli's government.

Director Douglas Hickox ("Skyriders") and screenwriter Cy Endfield (who also wrote and directed the original "Zulu") do a workman-like job in depicting the clash of cultures that led to the war and in staging the extended combat scenes. Much of the filming was done in Natal and the cinematography is top-notch—from the panoramic views of the African countryside to the controlled chaos of the battle scenes. Despite the presence of several major stars—among them Peter O'Toole, Burt Lancaster, and John Mills—the acting is disappointing and the characters one-dimensional.

Even so, the extended combat sequences make this a must-see for fans of war movies, colonial conflicts, and the British Empire. It also makes an excellent introduction and double-feature partner for "Zulu."

In the wake of the disaster at Isandlwana, part of the Zulu reserve—4500 strong—set upon the isolated, lightly-fortified British garrison at Rorke's Drift. A forward logistics depot, Rorke's Drift was manned by a single company, some 150 men. Despite repeated assaults over ten hours and fearsome hand-to-hand combat, the beleaguered garrison held. The defenders earned eleven Victoria Crosses, Britain's highest award for valor—the most ever awarded for a single engagement. After the morning's calamity, Rorke's Drift was not only a heroic stand against overwhelming odds but also a welcome reprieve for the embarrassed Brits.

Made in 1964, "Zulu" has become a classic war film. The story is uplifting: think the Alamo with a happy ending. And, both sides fight honorably and heroically and are portrayed even-handedly. It is a tribute to director and screenwriter Endfield that the film holds up so well after forty years. In addition to the compelling story—and Endfield never strays too far from the historical record—the movie is blessed with superb  cinematography and a solid cast, including Stanley Baker (Lt. John Chard) and a young Michael Caine (Lt. Gonville Bromhead) in his first feature role.

After 22 January, the British regrouped and invaded Zululand again with predictable results. The Zulus were decisively defeated, their king exiled, and his kingdom broken up. In the great sweep of history—even colonial history—the Anglo-Zulu War is a minor ripple, and it is kept alive in the popular imagination primarily by these two fine films. Between them, they capture much of the essence of a bygone era that has been too much romanticized. Some post-Olympics, snowbound, late-winter weekend, rent both and screen your own double-feature.

Military. com Rating:"Zulu": ***½; "Zulu Dawn" ***

Military. com's Movie Rating Scale
* As entertaining as an Article 15 (Best to avoid if possible)
** Another weekend pass (O. K. , but nothing special)
*** On a par with a promotion (Don't pass it up)
**** DEROS (It doesn't get much better than this)