This rousing historical adventure is the kind of film they just don't make anymore – more's the pity. Set during the glory days of the British Empire, it sees a young soldier accused of cowardice and setting off on an epic journey across war-torn Africa as he attempts to make amends for his supposed failings. Along the way it deals with themes of heroism, courage and cowardice, all set during a time that feels sadly very long ago.
The film is lavishly shot and well directed by the famous Zoltan Korda. Prior to watching, I knew absolutely nothing about the story as I hadn't read the novel or seen any of the other adaptations, but I was hooked throughout. Unknown actor John Clements is fine as the upstanding guy who undergoes an extreme physical transformation as the story progresses, but the acting honours really go to Ralph Richardson in an oddly touching turn as the army captain at the mercy of the desert son. Add in plenty of huge battle sequences, the lovely June Duprez and the rascally John Laurie and you have a perfect Sunday afternoon-type film.
The film is lavishly shot and well directed by the famous Zoltan Korda. Prior to watching, I knew absolutely nothing about the story as I hadn't read the novel or seen any of the other adaptations, but I was hooked throughout. Unknown actor John Clements is fine as the upstanding guy who undergoes an extreme physical transformation as the story progresses, but the acting honours really go to Ralph Richardson in an oddly touching turn as the army captain at the mercy of the desert son. Add in plenty of huge battle sequences, the lovely June Duprez and the rascally John Laurie and you have a perfect Sunday afternoon-type film.