Shaka Zulu

Shaka Zulu is a 1986 South African television series directed by William C. Faure and written by Joshua Sinclair for the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), based on his 1985 novel of the same name. It focuses on the rise of the Zulu, and their leader, Shaka, his wars, and the British administration. The series consists of 10 episodes of approximately 55 minutes each. It was aired in South Africa from October, and in the United States in syndication from November. Plot The series is based on the story of the king of the Zulu, Shaka (reigned 1816 to 1828), and the writings of the British traders with whom he interacted. It also covers the broader Mfecane period alongside the rapid expansion of the Zulu state. The story is described primarily via flashbacks by Dr Henry Fynn, an Irish doctor. Production The series was written for the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) by Joshua Sinclair, based on his 1985 novel of the same name. Harmony Gold USA partly funded and distributed Shaka Zulu in spite of the economic sanctions at the time. It was directed by William C Faure. The executive producer was Leon Rautenbach, and the composer was Dave Pollecutt.