Michael Cane is always great. Really wonderful war film too! I would recommend it!

talk about being out numbered. this is a classic tale of dont come into my backyard and do what you feel like. one of my faves from caine.right from the start you can tell this is gonna be one of those gems of a movie and it delivers. if you havnt seen it what are you waiting for.

Two Lieutenants, Chard of Engineers and Bromhead find that their 140 man contingent in Natal has been isolated by the destruction of the main British Army column and that 4,000 Zulu warriors will descend on them in hours. Each has a different military background in tactics and they are immediatly in conflict on how to prepare for the attack. Nearly a third of the men are in the infirmary, as the welsh company tries to somehow survive with no help in sight. Based on a true story. Written by John Vogel On the January 22nd 1879 the British Army suffered one of its worst defeats when Zulu forces massacred 1,500 of its troops at Isandlhwana. A short time after the main battle a Zulu force numbering in excess of 4000 warriors advanced on a British hospital and supply dump guarded by 139 Welsh infantrymen. The film concentrates on this bloody 12 hour battle during which the British force, under their commander from the Royal Engineers who happened to be in the area building a bridge and happened to be senior to the infantry officer, won 11 Victoria Crosses. While taking some liberties with history the film follows reality fairly closely, including matching exactly the identities of the VC winners.

Lt. Bromhead's (Michael Caine's character) development throughout the film makes this an intersting watch. Prior to receiving actual battlefield experience, he is quite the typical arrogant Lt. Seeing his character morph and facial expressions change after his "baptism of fire" causes me to rewatch this film from time to time.

amazing war movie, shot on location with great actors based on the real deal. 5/5

It also happened to be Chards (& Brombards) first command as senior officers. For those interested in the subject the book "The Washing of the Spears" gives a very accurate account of this period.

Take some vitamins! This thing will put you through the ringer; excellent film!!!