Feature Film | Military Drama | UK | English | 1h43m
Dir: John Guillermin | Scr: Robert Holles | Novel: Robert Holles | Ph: Douglas Slocombe | Prod: George H. Brown | Mus: John Addison | Ed: Max Benedict | AD: Maurice Carter | Snd: Don Deacon | Cast: Richard Attenborough, Jack Hawkins, Flora Robson, John Leyton, Mia Farrow, Cecil Parker, Errol John, Graham Stark, Earl Cameron, Percy Herbert, David Lodge, Bernard Horsfall, John Meillon
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With the final death knell of colonialism about to ring, an RSM, four sergeants, a private, an MP, and a stranded UN typist find themselves forced to hold up together in the sergeants’ mess when the African country in which they are posted – a former British colony – undergoes a violent regime change. However, when it becomes apparent that they are sheltering a wounded African captain – an alleged opponent of the incoming government – the potential for a war-provoking diplomatic incident becomes distinctly possible, in this enjoyably light-hearted military drama. Solidly crafted, with a number of strongly drawn characters (brought pleasingly to life by the well-assembled cast), and featuring at its heart a seldom better Richard Attenborough as a no-nonsense regimental sergeant major, Guns at Batasi proves an entertaining romp.
