The Syndicate

Historically, an almost forgotten British "B" grader, probably not helped by its having a name change in the UK to the documentary - like Kenya:Country of Treasure.

It's a predictable, not particularly well-acted film, arguably notable for a few items of trivia, that may engage the odd reader's interest, in tracking it down for a look.

William Sylvester, who will always be remembered as Dr Heywood Floyd in 2001:A Space Odyssey, plays the ostensible lead role of an ex-pilot, whose latent abilities are finally tapped at the film's somewhat abbreviated climax.

The extensive Kenyan location photography is welcome, though not necessarily awe - inspiring in its nature.

Just interesting observing the camp arrangements on display several times during the film. The European prospectors are always tenting around 400 - 500 metres away from the hired help, which whilst facilitating a couple of story points, doesn't appear to be both realistic or make a great deal of sense. I must confess at this point to never having been on African safari.

A little unusual too in that the story ends somewhat ambiguously for this type of film, with the villains, so to speak (heroic characters aren't thick on the ground) not necessarily getting their just desserts. It's unclear whether they will ever pay for several murders.

Normally I rejoice when they release the full version of a film,but not in this instace.It was a total bore with irritating characters.It is impossible to take any interest in the routine plot.This film and it's fortunes speak volumes about the lamentable state of Associated Brtish at this time.

Reasonable action-thriller concerning a group of prospectors whose plans to mine a Kenyan savanna for its rich, and as yet untapped uranium deposits slowly deteriorate under threat of double cross and jealousy.

William Sylvester ("2001 A Space Odyssey") stars as the all purpose Burt whose affections for Mari (Ritchie) naturally conflict with her husband (Urquhart), straining relations and forcing Urquhart to hit the bottle on a regular basis. German Christiam Doermer (and Hardy Kruger look-a-like) plays the self-assured blonde partner, though not involved in the sordid love triangle, still vying for a greater share of the profits, despite championing an ethical concern over the uranium's use once it's enriched by unscrupulous buyers.

As a result of the intrigue, plenty of fisticuffs and vocal arguments ensue, while the quartet are camped in the African wilderness, vulnerable to the usual witch-doctors, native superstition and the local big game.

It's hastily undertaken with occasional action and a climax that's over in under a minute (though it's still reasonably taut and effective). The Kenyan scenery is always pleasing and the film shows a promise that while not entirely fulfilled, isn't bad all the same if your expectations aren't too great.