User Reviews

Chief Zabu is a comedic, yet socially relevant film that inspires a rewatch. As the film's fictional country of Tiberaku falls under the public eye while applying for a seat in the United Nations, American real estate agents flock to have a part in the financial sector of the country. The film tells an excellent story about the cost of the American Dream and the elements that come into play while pursuing it. Zack Norman steals the show with his zany and hilarious characterization of Sammy Brooks. Overall, Chief Zabu is an entertaining, enjoyable and important film I will be showing my friends soon.

Chief Zabu is a timeless 80's satire that will continue to stay relevant throughout the years no matter the audience. In this film two realtors dream of having power in the political field and decide to capitalize on a Polynesian island in order to help them get to the top. Writers Neil Cohen and Zack Norman did a beautiful job when it came to writing a plot that would stay significant throughout time due to the constant crave of power and success in society. The writing included a perfect amount of humor to make the film comical but also continue to stay meaningful in its motifs. It's evident throughout the film that Cohen and Norman put a great amount of thought into each dialogue and scene in order to make the film so smooth as if this were happening in real life. Based on the amazing work done by Cohen and Norman I truly believe this film will continue to impress later generations as well.

Chief Zabu is an intelligently written comedy that brilliantly satirizes global politics and the American dream. Although the film was shot thirty years ago, many of the jokes still land perfectly, as they still relate to today's current political climate. Allen Garfield and Zack Norman share a wonderful on-screen chemistry as two ambitious real estate developers dreaming of wealth and success. When these two friends learn that they can capitalize on a small Polynesian island, what ensues is a hilariously engaging plot to gain control of the tropical land. The quick-paced nature of the dialogue adds a level of realism to the film, making it all the more engrossing. What is perhaps most impressive was that the filmmakers were able make the film look so good on such a modest budget (just under 188 thousand dollars). Chief Zabu scores as a believable and deliciously intriguing send-up.

In the height of this election season, Chief Zabu is an extremely relevant film that follows multiple characters wanting a higher political status and influence. The hilarious political satire follows a group of New York real estate agents, played by Zack Norman, Allen Garfield, and Allan Arbus, as they plot to raise money and take over the fictional Polynesian nation Tiberaku while it's leader vies for admittance into the UN. This film was made in 1986, but the recent election inspired filmmakers Neil Cohen and Zach Norman to reassemble and release it. Allen Garfield plays Ben Sydney, the mastermind of this lucrative deal and ironically, the reason the filmmakers wanted to release this film. He is likened very much to a modern-day Trump. I was engaged the entire time, it was just so funny to follow these characters in their ridiculous ambitions, especially seeing how well it related to today's political state. I definitely recommend it.

Ever thought about a world where your favorite movies never made it to the big screen? Imagine uncovering, dusting off and watching for the first time Ferris Bueller's Day Off or The Breakfast Club. Some movies go through the whole production process but never get released to the public. This was the case for Chief Zabu. If you're an analytical film-goer who is typically stimulated by political intrigue than Zabu might be your 30 year old lost treasure. Despite its age, it maintains visual integrity as if it had the backing of a major studio. The film follows Ben Sydney (played by Allen Garfield) who is a real estate developer that lacks the ability to grasp the bigger picture of things. It also follows Sammy (played by Zack Norman), a trusty employee to Sidney, who aspires to be a stand up comedian rather than work in real estate his whole life. The duo believe they have struck gold when they are swindled by George Dankworth (played by Allan Arbus) to finance a deal involving a tiny, young, Polynesian island called Tiberaku. This deal will supposedly allow Ben and Sammy to profit from their soft drink and fishing rights they would be obtaining…as long as Chief Henri Zabu (played by Manu Tupou) gets the UN to approve them as an Independent nation. Though the central focus of the film is this deal revolving around Tiberaku, it's really about the American Dream and what being successful really means. A treasure is a treasure because it maintains timeless value. That's exactly why Chief Zabu is a lost treasure and is incredibly relevant today.

Chief Zabu is a socio-political comedy shot in the 1980's that only recently released this year and just in time for the presidential election. It tells the story of two New York businessmen who scheme to take over a Polynesian country in hopes of living out their American dream. Neil Cohen and Zack Norman create a hilariously quick-witted script in this social satire that I found exceptionally entertaining. Also, Allen Garfield and Zack Norman were perfect in their roles as the hysterical New Yorkers. Their chemistry on screen was truly captivating and I loved their intelligent humor and perfect comedic timing. Although this was a low-budget film with a short running time, it successfully manages to humorously incorporate topics of the political and social world that are still incredibly relevant today. I highly recommend watching this uniquely brilliant comedy.

This audacious sociopolitical comedy is easily an instant classic! It is chock full of legendary actors staring the duo of the century - Zack Norman and Allen Garfield - who are each uniquely hilarious. The story follows a needful New York real estate developer (Garfield) who dreams of gaining political influence and status quo. In hopes of achieving this, his coworker and right hand man, Sammy (Norman) become involved with an international hustler to finance a newly independent Polynesian country while their leader, Chief Zabu is in New York seeking admission to the UN. In the wake of our current whirlwind of political madness, this film alleviates all anxieties of the election with a huge dosage of satire. It's as if they combined today's relevancy with the nostalgic, smart humor of the 80's - very reminiscent of classics such as Trading Places and CaddyShack. If you're looking for a witty comedy, Chief Zabu delivers.

I truly believe that the most important element in any movie is the talent's individual performance and the chemistry of the cast. This combination creates a sense of believability, and Chief Zabu knocks it out the park in both aspects. Allen Garfield and Zack Norman do a stellar job as the main characters that kept me fully engaged throughout the film. While the writing proves to be very witty and off the walls, these performances make the film a bit more grounded and provide viewers with an in-depth look at the morality of these characters. The exchanges among the cast makes for a very humorous environment, something that can easily fall short in other comedy films. The ensemble cast does a great job playing off of one another and it really shows. Even four decades after its original conception, it's no surprise the comedy still holds its own in every regard.

Having missed the past few festivals in Fort Lauderdale, I finally made the trip to see Chief Zabu this year! I was completely enthralled by the synopsis of the film and how long it took to come out. I certainly wasn't disappointed - it was well worth the drive! The story is cleverly written while the characters are absolutely hilarious. Normally I don't write reviews but since there is a horribly undeserved review, I thought I'd submit my opinion to hopefully balance it out. I, along with the many other positive reviewers absolutely LOVED the film. It is a fantastic political satire that is surprisingly relevant to this day. I would see it again in a heartbeat!

Chief Zabu cleverly commentates on current figures on our society while giving us an experience that few will regret. The film follows Ben Sydney (Allen Garfield) and Sammy Brooks (Zack Norman) as they try to get rich through the introduction of the island country Tiburaku to the United Nations. Though Garfield is the leader actor, Norman steals the show with his uncanny comedic timing and his wild characterization of New York realtor. Norman embodies his character with the natural confidence of a New Yorker while also showing off the underlying genius of him. Sammy Brooks is almost a step ahead of the whole plot, giving the audience an everyman to relate to with his reluctant belief in the plot and his true dream of working for his recognition through his comedy. If there were ever a character that makes a great film fantastic, it's Sammy Brooks. The film is hilariously on point with the world of under-the-table business and I plan to share it as much as possible.

Neil Cohen's socio-political satire is an indie gem that I found to be downright hysterical. The writing especially is remarkable in the way that the two bumbling pseudo-politicians (played by Zach Norman and the late Allen Garfield) manage to keep up a fast-paced dialogue that on the surface means absolutely nothing yet still holds a deeper commentary about the American Dream. The two actors clearly have great chemistry which allows their constant banter to feel natural and all the more real. For a truly independent film, it definitely holds up to mainstream cinema.

The greatest accomplishment of 'Chief Zabu' is probably its timeless humor. The story begins with New York businessmen proposing to financially take over a small, Polynesian island for the chance of gaining wealth, status, and political influence. The main duo consists of Ben Sydney, a real estate developer (played by Allen Garfield), and his friend and failed comedian, Sammy Brooks (played by co-director Zack Norman). The chemistry of the pair delightfully livens up the screen along with their absurd, chaotic energy and banter. 'Chief Zabu' is a funny, fast-paced film that has grown only more relevant since it was made. I can't imagine there has been a better time for a film like this to be released.

Chief Zabu proves to be a timeless film. In 1986, Co-directors Neil Cohen and Zack Norman teamed together to create this cheeky socio-political comedy but unfortunately it was never released. Fast forward thirty years, and now Chief Zabu has come back to life and is even more relevant than ever. This political satire follows a status-seeking New York real estate agent Ben Sydney (Allen Garfield) as he attempts to close a huge international deal. The overly optimistic, and sometimes naïve Ben convinces his smart business partner and also best friend Sammy Brooks (Zack Norman) to assist him in accomplishing his goal This deal of a lifetime centers around the newly independent fictional South Pacific island of Tiburaku, whose leader Chief Henri Zabu journeys to New York in hopes of obtaining UN membership. While Zabu is away, Ben and an assembly of other businessmen try to figure out ways to invest in this new island. From building roads to obtaining fishing rights, they try to exploit Tiburaku from every angle possible in hopes of getting rich and climbing the social ladder. The comedic performances by Allen Garfield and Zack Norman add a hilarious spin to the business world and helps lighten the conversation of politics, especially with elections right around the corner. If you enjoy smart humor, I definitely recommend giving Chief Zabu a watch.

Surrounding two sleazy business buddies looking to make a quick buck by investing in a peaceful Polynesian island, Chief Zabu is a quick-witted comedy that hilariously satirizes global politics and the "American dream. Although the film was originally made in 1988, many of the jokes are still relevant today, as they translate perfectly to 21st century politics. Actors Allen Garfield and Zack Norman's on-screen chemistry is incontrovertible as two power-hungry real estate developers with pie in the sky dreams of wealth and success. When these two friends learn that they can earn millions off of a small Polynesian island, what follows is a hilariously entertaining scheme to gain economic control of the tropical land. Overall, Chief Zabu is a hilarious, farcical, and witty satire with a humorous and engaging script that mocks sleazy business dealings and political influence that stands the test of time over 30 years after it was originally produced.

Chief Zabu is a great satire that was almost completely filmed in the 80's, but finally saw a release three decades later. As a result, the tone and writing of the film is very reminiscent of timeless works of Harold Ramis and John Landis. The cast is outstanding, they perfectly played real estate moguls who bumble their way into a landmark real estate deal with an island nation. Many of the actors evoke the pitch-perfect comedic timing they used in other films and shows they stole the show in, like Romancing the Stone and M*A*S*H. Overall, this is a nostalgic time capsule of its era; they don't make movies quite like this anymore.

Chief Zabu is spectacular and hilarious. The fact that the movie 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 to be: you can't make this stuff up. As moving as it is irreverent, Chief Zabu is absurdist satire at its best!

Chief Zabu is absolutely hysterical! A film with a sincerely twisted view of the American Dream with a sardonic tone, which features two business partner buddies who are looking to make a quick buck by investing in the peaceful paradise island of Tiberaku. The 80s style satirical humor is just the right amount of nostalgic and eccentric that will have you laughing the entire time. Definitely a cult classic type comedy film that is sure to be a hit. It's kind of ironic how much this film relates to current times even though it was shot thirty years ago. These bad apples of business have an ongoing banter that is unorthodox and witty, and when their scheme goes south their situations get even more out of hand. It definitely has that Twins vibe to it that emulates the 80s genre so well, and for being shot so long ago, the cinematography is outstanding. Definitely a must-see for those who are into that paradoxical humor that we've seen in so many classic films before.

Originally produced in 1988, Chief Zabu is finally available for us to watch and it is a real treat. From writers-directors Neil Cohen and Zack Norman, the film is a surprisingly pertinent satire. It follows two real estate men trying to win a bid to essentially own a newly independent country. Ben Sydney is a frustratingly naive character, as the viewer is driven almost to shouting at the screen as he makes bad decision after bad decision and is oblivious to the fact he's being ripped off. His business partner, Sammy, is trying to make it as a comic and is mostly along the way. Mixed up is the titular Chief Zabu trying to get his country admitted into the UN and seeming inept and as oblivious as Sydney. The film sends up politics, capitalism and high society effectively, with a lot of laughs coming from the characters blunders. While not as overtly absurd, Cohen and Norman's film feels a lot like Woody Allen's Bananas and it takes aim at a lot of the same targets. Perhaps the best example of the film's humor comes when Ben and Sammy are driving to pick up a check and discussing the breakdown of the profits. The two talk over each other spewing percents of percents. The scene is a total riot and captures the tone of the film well. The dry humor is accompanied by some beautiful shots of New York City, Beverly Hills and the fictional island of Tiburaku. For fans of satire of people interested in a piece of comedy history that they certainly haven't seen before, Chief Zabu is worth the watch.

After being introduced to Chief Zabu and watching the trailer, I first thought of it as a Seinfeld like movie. From the cinematography of the film to the characters, it all brought a sense of a classic comedy piece. After watching it, I continued to hold this belief as well as coming to the conclusion that this film is more like the Wolf of Wall Street from 30 years ago. It showcases the ups and downs of the business world, the gamble of a business deal and the different characters of those who make them, while creating an overall humorous take on it all in this business satire. Through the use of bright and vibrant colors with little use of shadows, like Seinfeld, this film is kept light along with the quick banter in conveying their view of the American Dream. I recommend this film to anyone looking for a comedic film with a classic feel surrounding the stereotypical view of New York businessmen lost in a get rich scheme.

Chief Zabu is a satire about business and politics that, despite being made in the 80's, is still very relevant today. The film follows two men, Ben and Sammy, who think they can get rich quick after being roped into a deal by their shady business partner buying land in a Polynesian island called Tiburaku. The film is full of fast and funny banter and as the two fumble their way into riches and fame. The film takes an almost absurdist look at the American Dream and pokes fun at the fickle worlds of business and politics as the leading men find themselves in comical situations while their business strategy goes awry. The leader of Tiburaku, Zabu, is stuck dealing with the antics of all of the businessmen trying to make money off of his island while he tries to delicately deal his country's admittance into the UN. The fact that the film was made in the 80's is obvious from its Seinfeld-esque humor, but the subject matter is timeless and still makes you think to this day. The film was found by one of the directors under his stairs and was never released until recently, almost serving as a time capsule to the world of film in the 80's. Another interesting fact about the movie was that it was filmed in only 15 days. Chief Zabu was a great watch that was timeless; people who like the 80's aesthetic and funny satires will love this film.

We were fortunate that our local film festival (Gasparilla, in Ybor City, FL) featured a screening of Chief Zabu this weekend, as a good dose of grownup wit (and more than a few belly-laughs) were just what we needed after a stressful beginning to 2017. The film is not just *set* in the 1980s--it was actually *filmed* then, too, on a shoestring at that. And the tale of how the director and producer almost forgot about the indie project (a relatively new genre back then) and set about scrambling to reassemble it, then give up, then locate an unblemished original and release it some 30 years later, is a story in itself. But anyway...on to the movie. It's about the hilarious scheme cooked up by a real estate investor named Ben Sydney (played perfectly by Allen Garfield) who is both a wheeler-dealer and social climber along the lines of you-know-who. Ben, along with his partner and best friend Sammy Brooks (brilliantly played by Zack Norman), is trying to pull off an investment scheme that involves getting UN membership for the Polynesian island nation of Tiburaku (yes, it's fictional), meanwhile he and his friends will benefit from the fishing and building rights; make a massive fortune for themselves; and even gain some political power and entré in the process. Of course, a few small things go awry, to hilarious effect. The satire could not be more on-point if the script had been written yesterday (the long, single-shot scene in the convertible, in particular, is pitch-perfect). As the French might say (while carrying out tests on Tiburaku), plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose (the more things change, the more it's the same thing).