Audience Member
Chief Zabu is a film that is enjoyable as it is socially relevant, even over 30 years after it was produced. The film addresses issues such as colonialism and corporate greed in an authentic yet approachable manner, relaying the cost of the American Dream by showing both the benefits the leads reap and the damages they have done to those affected. Neil Cohen, Zack Norman, and Nancy Zucker's screenplay does an excellent job at creating a realistic world to the point where the fictional country of Tiberaku seems incredibly authentic. Overall, Chief Zabu is an entertaining film worthy of a rewatch.
Rated 4.5/5 Stars •
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
01/30/23
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Audience Member
How far would you go for money, status, and political power? ‘Chief Zabu' takes audiences through one wild journey of two New York businessmen in their pursuit of the American Dream. When conman George Dankworth (late Allan Arbus) dangles a golden opportunity in front of real estate developer Ben Sydney (Allen Garfield), Ben can't help but try to coerce his friend Sammy Brooks (co-director Zack Norman) to join him. The brilliant chemistry between the two actors is undeniable, especially in their high-energy, witty bantering. Along with clever quips, ‘Chief Zabu' is fast-paced and left my head spinning until the jokes sank in. This hidden gem has waited long enough, and really, its public release is perfectly timed.
Rated 4/5 Stars •
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
01/15/23
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Audience Member
Chief Zabu is a blast from the past reworked for today's audience as a commentary on figures in the US today. The film stars Allen Garfield as Ben Sydney, a businessman whose connections in politics is about to lead him to one of the biggest scores in his life. With the help of his right-hand man Sammy Brooks, portrayed by Zack Norman, he looks to take advantage of the Polynesian nation of Tiburaku and the titled leader Chief Henri Zabu (Manu Tupuo). The film has striking imagery, giving the viewer a look into the lavish lifestyle of businessmen who succeed at the under-the-table dealings. From private mansions to constant affairs, this film shows how the world of business can be fast-living and unforgiving. With excellent comedic timing and ridiculously funny takes on the world of business in New York, this film shows how much a businessman can achieve even without a deep background in the world of politics. This film's funny, smart, and ironically accurate to the world shady business dealings and I can't wait to see it again!
Rated 5/5 Stars •
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
02/20/23
Full Review
Audience Member
Being behind the camera can really make or break a film, and Chief Zabu does an excellent job utilizing the camera angles to bring the comedy full circle. Director Neil Cohan is on point fixing the audience's attention on exactly what is going on, and on some things that might go overlooked. He captures this with some wide angle shots, and with close ups, he focuses on some of the more quirky moments of the film. Really bringing out the humor at times where you would least expect it. With a pleasant mix of a ridiculous and peculiar set of events, Chief Zabu makes for a hilarious comedy all around.
Rated 5/5 Stars •
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
02/15/23
Full Review
Audience Member
In the Neil Cohen-Zack Norman indie project Chief Zabu, the world of politics is seen in quite a satirical light. Through watching the capers of New York real estate agents Ben Sydney (Allen Garfield) and Sammy Brooks (Zack Norman) trying to elevate their status in life by trying to govern a small Polynesian island, the idea of politics becomes a grandiose punchline. I found it very hilarious the immense lack of experience Sammy and Ben have in the political world coupled by the nefarious and often sneaky things they do as if they've been politicians from the beginning. Chief Zabu shows two knuckleheads tripping upwards to the top as they riotously pursue greatness.
Rated 5/5 Stars •
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
02/16/23
Full Review
Audience Member
A fresh 80's comedy that's still relevant today, Chief Zabu follows two sleazy businessmen who want to invest in the island paradise Tibuaku, an up-and-coming Polynesian Island wishing to be admitted to the United Nations. With its witty comedy and the quick banter that defined the 80's, Chief Zabu does not disappoint. Actors Allen Garfield and Zack Norman have impeccable comedic timing and carry out the film's dry humor with ease. Finally released over 30 years after it was originally made, this satire is surprisingly relevant to politics and business today, which makes it even more hilarious as a political satire. In short, Chief Zabu is a hilarious, farcical, and witty satire mocking economic and political influence that translates perfectly to the 21st century.
Rated 5/5 Stars •
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
01/18/23
Full Review
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