The 1978 action film The Wild Geese is back in cinemas, presenting a curious relic from a bygone era of moviemaking. Directed by Andrew McLaglen, the picture assembles a trio of seasoned stars—Richard Burton, Richard Harris, and Roger Moore—in a tale of hired guns and political intrigue in Africa.
The plot revolves around a group of mercenaries, led by Burton’s character, who are recruited by a wealthy industrialist to overthrow a military regime in the fictional African nation of Zembala. Their mission is to reinstate a deposed president, portrayed by Winston Ntshona, with the underlying motive of securing favorable mining rights. The narrative unfolds with a mix of battlefield bravado and cynical realpolitik, reflecting a particular genre fascination of the 1970s.
Watching the film today, the passage of time is evident. The action sequences, including a notably unconvincing parachute jump, often highlight the physical limitations of its aging lead actors rather than their daring. The political subtext and character dynamics, including a contentious relationship between a South African mercenary and the African leader he is tasked to rescue, feel products of a different cinematic and social sensibility.
Supporting roles from actors like Hardy Krüger, John Kani, and Frank Finlay add texture to the ensemble. The story builds towards a chaotic climax where plans unravel, leading to a final act of retribution for the protagonists.
Ultimately, The Wild Geese offers a window into a specific moment in film history, where aging Hollywood icons headlined a brand of gritty, politically tinged adventure that has since evolved considerably. Its re-release provides an opportunity to revisit its particular blend of star power and period storytelling.