X
- 2016
- R
- International Film Marketing
- 1 h 14 m
- 2016
- R
- International Film Marketing
- 1 h 14 m
Summary In 1986 Howard Zuker and Neil Cohen directed their first and only film, Chief Zabu, a low budget, audacious socio-political comedy about New York real estate operators who scheme to take over a Polynesian country while its leader is in New York seeking admission to the UN. After a series of snafus that paralleled the film's madcap plot, ...
Directed By: Neil Cohen, Zack Norman
Written By: Nancy Zuker, Neil Cohen, Zack Norman
- 2016
- R
- International Film Marketing
- 1 h 14 m
- 2016
- R
- International Film Marketing
- 1 h 14 m
Chief Zabu
Metascore
Available after 4 critic reviews
9.4
Where to Watch
Summary In 1986 Howard Zuker and Neil Cohen directed their first and only film, Chief Zabu, a low budget, audacious socio-political comedy about New York real estate operators who scheme to take over a Polynesian country while its leader is in New York seeking admission to the UN. After a series of snafus that paralleled the film's madcap plot, ...
Directed By: Neil Cohen, Zack Norman
Written By: Nancy Zuker, Neil Cohen, Zack Norman
Where to Watch
Top Cast
Though its mix of the loopy, the broad and the deadpan is uneven, its story of American business designs on a tiny Polynesian nation still has satirical bite.
Chief Zabu may have been buried for the past three decades, but this tiresomely talky would-be satire is no treasure.
User Score
Universal Acclaim
Based on 23 User Ratings
9.4
100% Positive
23 Ratings
23 Ratings
0% Mixed
0 Ratings
0 Ratings
0% Negative
0 Ratings
0 Ratings
User Score
Universal Acclaim
Based on 23 User Ratings
9.4
100% Positive
23 Ratings
23 Ratings
0% Mixed
0 Ratings
0 Ratings
0% Negative
0 Ratings
0 Ratings
Chief Zabu was created in the ’80s but still holds its own in modern cinema. With hilarious dialogue, the film has a fast-paced script keeping me locked into the screen. Directors Neil Cohen and Zack Norman created this film in 15 days and with only a $200,000 budget; it amazed me just how spectacular their passion product of a dry-humor satire turned out with such little resources. This gem that has been in hiding for the last 3 decades, reminding me just how fun it is to venture back in time to appreciate vintage films and I can’t wait to binge-watch more 80’s films.
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From the combined powers of Neil Cohen and Zack Norman, "Chief Zabu" is a riotous passion project that has only accrued in value since its beginnings in the 80’s. Zack Norman brings the full extent of his comedic chops in his direction and portrayal of his neurotic lead, Sammy Brooks. Allen Garfield swiftly bounces off of Norman throughout the film and they generate infectious laughter in the process. "Chief Zabu" is an ode to comedy in its truest form, and the creative minds behind it know how to conduct effortlessly.
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The film Chief Zabu is a comedic take on the serious world of business and politics. Allen Garfield stars as Ben Sydney, a businessman who hopes to benefit from the inclusion of a new island nation in the UN. Comedy in this film is often well-timed while also channeling the lifestyle of businessmen in New York. Many of the characters are entertaining yet charming, and each scene leads to another moment that will leave you laughing for nights on end. The cast is so intriguing, the audience is left rooting for their main characters to succeed in their dealing even if they aren’t the most morally sound. This 80’s film cut for the modern cinema is worth the watch and I can’t wait to watch it again!
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Chief Zabu is a unique film. Lost for 30 years and just recently discovered under a staircase in the house of one of the directors, the movie was never released until now. Although it’s an 80’s comedy, the movie is as funny and timely as ever. Chief Zabu takes a twisted look at what the American Dream is to greedy businessmen in a hilarious fashion. When Chief Zabu tries to bring his island country into the UN and the modern world, he has to deal with businessmen like the greedy Ben and Sammy who scheme to start monopolies. If you want a smart and relevant satire, watch Chief Zabu.
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Chief Zabu is spectacular and hilarious, absurdist satire at its very best. Possibly the most independent movie ever made, the fact that the film was shot in 1986 yet completed only months ago is nothing short of astonishing, giving it an air of complete autonomy and uniqueness; I've never seen anything like it and doubt anyone else has, either. The guerilla, micro-budget filmmaking style is years ahead of its time, as are its characters and themes, all weirdly relevant to the very latest issues of today, political and otherwise. The staccato banter and razor wit are comically arresting and delightful, the period art direction flawless and authentic without feeling dated or condescending, which is very rare indeed. The 1980s hair and costumes are of course spot-on, far crazier and amazing than any recreation could ever hope for: you can't make this stuff up!!!! An absolute must-see for film enthusiasts, as well as anyone who loves to be surprised and delighted by off-kilter brilliance and uncanny social commentary!!!!
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Chief Zabu is the ingenious story of two outrageous New York businessmen who’s dream of political influence and power lead to a scheme to take over a Polynesian island nation. This insightful comedy includes boldly hilarious moments between the incredibly talented ensemble cast that I found truly hilarious. Zack Norman and Allen Garfield’s chemistry on screen is remarkably entertaining and makes for a great film. If you love movies with quick-witted humor, I highly recommend Chief Zabu.
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Production Company
Zabu Company
Release Date Oct 28, 2016
Duration 1 h 14 m
Rating R
Genres
Website
https://www.chiefzabu.com/
