Zulu (2013) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Zulu (2013) is a crime thriller directed by Jérôme Salle and based on Caryl Férey’s novel of the same name. Set against the backdrop of post-apartheid South Africa, the film explores themes of race, corruption, and justice in a country still healing from decades of racial tension. Starring Forest Whitaker and Orlando Bloom, Zulu is a gritty, intense look at a nation’s lingering wounds and the violent realities of crime, poverty, and drugs in Cape Town.
In this review, we’ll dive into the film’s plot, performances, and social context, while providing information on where to stream Zulu online in 2024.
Plot Summary: A Gritty Tale of Murder and Corruption
Zulu follows two Cape Town police officers, Ali Sokhela (Forest Whitaker), the head of the city’s homicide division, and Brian Epkeen (Orlando Bloom), his reckless, hard-drinking partner. Ali, a deeply introspective man, is haunted by his traumatic past as a child of apartheid, while Brian is a flawed but dedicated officer dealing with personal demons, including a strained relationship with his ex-wife and son.
The story begins when the mutilated body of a young white woman is found in a public garden. As the two detectives investigate, they uncover a dark web of drug trafficking, gang violence, and political corruption. The deeper they dig, the more they realize that the case ties into a larger conspiracy involving experimental drugs and racial violence that threatens to plunge the city into chaos.
As the investigation intensifies, both men are forced to confront their own personal struggles while navigating the dangerous underworld of Cape Town, where power, greed, and the remnants of apartheid still cast long shadows.
Cast and Performances: Whitaker and Bloom Deliver Gritty, Nuanced Performances
Forest Whitaker delivers a powerful performance as Ali Sokhela, a man marked by his past and trying to bring order to a chaotic world. Whitaker’s portrayal of Ali is nuanced, showing a character who is both strong and vulnerable, dealing with the lingering effects of trauma while trying to maintain his sense of morality in a corrupt environment. His quiet intensity and commanding presence anchor the film, making Ali a character the audience can empathize with, even when he is forced to make difficult choices.
Orlando Bloom’s performance as Brian Epkeen is a revelation, marking a departure from the swashbuckling roles he is known for. Brian is brash, impulsive, and self-destructive, but Bloom brings a level of depth to the character that makes him more than just a typical “bad cop.” His chemistry with Whitaker is one of the film’s highlights, as the two actors create a compelling dynamic between their characters—one haunted by the past and the other struggling with his own inner turmoil.
The supporting cast, including Conrad Kemp and Tanya van Graan, also provide strong performances, contributing to the film’s tension and emotional complexity.
Setting and Cinematography: Cape Town as a Character
One of Zulu‘s greatest strengths is its setting. Cape Town is not just a backdrop, but a character in its own right. The film contrasts the stunning natural beauty of the South African landscape with the harsh realities of life in the city’s underprivileged areas. The cinematography by Denis Rouden captures both the picturesque views of Cape Town’s beaches and the gritty, violent world of its townships, creating a visual representation of the city’s social divide.
The film also doesn’t shy away from addressing the lingering effects of apartheid on South African society. While the country has made strides toward reconciliation, Zulu highlights the systemic issues of race, poverty, and violence that continue to plague the nation.
Themes and Social Commentary: Post-Apartheid Tensions
At its core, Zulu is a film about the scars left by apartheid and how they continue to shape the present. Both Ali and Brian are products of their environments—Ali, a black man who grew up in fear and trauma during apartheid, and Brian, a white man from a privileged background who is still coming to terms with his place in the new South Africa. The film uses their partnership to explore the complex dynamics of race and power, with both characters embodying the tensions of a society still grappling with its past.
The film also tackles issues of corruption and the impact of drugs on marginalized communities. The criminal conspiracy at the heart of the story involves an experimental drug that could have disastrous consequences for the city’s most vulnerable residents. This subplot serves as a commentary on how systemic inequalities continue to disproportionately affect the poor and disenfranchised.
Critical Reception: A Brutal, Thought-Provoking Thriller
Zulu received mixed to positive reviews from critics, with particular praise for the performances of Whitaker and Bloom, as well as the film’s social commentary. The film’s gritty realism and unflinching portrayal of violence were noted by some critics as both a strength and a potential barrier for viewers who may find its brutality difficult to watch.
While some reviewers felt that the film leaned too heavily into familiar crime thriller tropes, others appreciated its ambition and willingness to tackle complex themes. The combination of strong performances, a well-developed setting, and its exploration of South Africa’s social and political issues make Zulu a thought-provoking and intense experience.
Streaming Zulu in 2024: Where to Watch Online
As of 2024, several streaming platforms offer Zulu for rental, purchase, or streaming. Here are some of the top options:
1. Amazon Prime Video
Zulu is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Viewers can rent the film for a limited time in HD or buy it to add to their collection. Prime members may also occasionally find the film included in their subscription, so it’s worth checking the platform.
2. Apple TV
Apple TV offers Zulu for both rental and purchase. Apple’s easy-to-use interface and high-quality streaming options make it a great platform for those who want to watch on their Apple devices or compatible smart TVs.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
Zulu is available on Google Play Movies & TV, where users can rent or buy the film. Google Play’s flexibility allows viewers to stream across various devices, including Android phones, tablets, and smart TVs.
4. Vudu
Vudu offers both rental and purchase options for Zulu. The platform is known for its frequent deals and promotions, making it a good option for those looking for a budget-friendly way to watch the film.
5. YouTube Movies
YouTube Movies provides the option to rent or buy Zulu. This is a convenient option for viewers who prefer the familiar interface of YouTube and want to stream on various devices.
Why Zulu Is Still Relevant in 2024
Zulu remains a compelling watch due to its exploration of difficult themes like racial tensions, police corruption, and the lingering scars of apartheid. The film’s commentary on the impact of crime and drugs in a divided society continues to resonate, particularly in a global context where similar issues are still prevalent.
The performances of Forest Whitaker and Orlando Bloom elevate the film beyond a typical crime thriller, offering a deeper, more personal look at the complexities of South African society. Their nuanced portrayals make Zulu a film that balances action and suspense with emotional depth and social commentary.
Conclusion: A Brutal, Thought-Provoking Crime Thriller
Zulu is a raw and gripping crime thriller that offers more than just suspense—it’s a film that delves into the heart of South Africa’s past and present, exploring the ongoing impact of apartheid and the complexities of race and justice in a fractured society. With strong performances from Forest Whitaker and Orlando Bloom, the film is both an intense crime drama and a social commentary on the lingering effects of systemic inequality.
For viewers looking to stream Zulu in 2024, platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play provide easy access to this thought-provoking film. Whether you’re a fan of crime thrillers or interested in films with a social conscience, Zulu offers a powerful cinematic experience that stays with you long after the credits roll.
