Cast
View AllCrew
Director
- Ivan Hall
Writer
- Otto Krause
- James Ambrose Brown
Producer
- Albie Venter
- Madel Venter
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Attack on Kariba distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Ivan Hall brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1973, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Attack on Kariba took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 103 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 144 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The film contains approximately 1596 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1973, when this film was released:
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Attack on Kariba shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Spy Who Loved Me, which focuses more on action than character development, Attack on Kariba offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like A View to a Kill and Die Hard explore similar territory, Attack on Kariba stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 22, 1973
- Runtime: 1h 43m