The movie, Zulu Dawn, is a dramtic and true story that recounts the massive defeat of British forces at the hands of the 25,000 warrior strong Zulu army in South Africa.  The battle of Isandhlwana took place in 1879 and involved the destruction of over 1,500 British Redcoat troops and allied forces.  It actually takes place one day before the famous British victory at Rourke's Drift where 100 Redcoats fought-off over 4,000 Zulus.  This latter battle was made into the original movie Zulu.  In Zulu Dawn, General Lord Chelmsford makes the tragically fatal decision to split up his troops based on faulty intelligence provided by Zulu prisoners.  One half of Lord Chelmsford's army is lead by a Colonel Durnford and his troops face the massive Zulu army alone and though completely outnumbered march into death and fight to the last minute.  Zulu Dawn is an extravagant production that when viewed first provides the proper context for watching the film Zulu which many feel represents the high water mark of British rule in South Africa.  Starring Burt Lancaster, Sir John Mills and Peter O'Toole.  Full screen in color.  Released in 1979.  Runtime 117 minutes