Review of Chief Zabu (2016) by S.j. M — 25 Nov 2016

On pure critique; it's uneven, plenty of jokes don't hit, and some very major plot events come out of nowhere. In addition, the craft of filmmaking itself is certainly independent. But, does all of this mean it's a bad thing? There once was a time when every movie in the commercially released theatrical system was not exactly the same as they all are today. That's why you go see independent cinema, because they offer a unique entity that the generic studios are not putting out. This film is not safe, not conventionally structured, outlandish at times, and on all accords not apologetic about it. And that is a beautiful thing. I applaud the filmmakers for going for it.

Though made 30 years ago; content-wise it's prophetic to the contemporary presidential election, and amazingly so, as a socio-political satire following the journey of a real estate developer who is not the brightest of fellows, seeks stature, status, and money by exploiting a newly independent island in the Pacific.

The lead and main supporting play off each other very well, and we even start to root for these lovable losers. Remnicient of some great Jim Belushi films of the late 80's/early 90's, it's darn funny, and worth the price of admission!