Chief Zabu
| Release Date: October 28, 2016
9.4
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Universal acclaim based on 23 Ratings
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10
SophiaWhiteNov 2, 2016
Chief Zabu gives an intelligently comedic twist on the world of business and international politics. Actors Allen Garfield (Ben Sydney) and Zack Norman (Sammy Brooks) gave hilarious performances as they play a unique duo of hopefulChief Zabu gives an intelligently comedic twist on the world of business and international politics. Actors Allen Garfield (Ben Sydney) and Zack Norman (Sammy Brooks) gave hilarious performances as they play a unique duo of hopeful entrepreneurs that dream of becoming rich and successful. It’s cleverly written political satire with a quick, but smart dialogue and great plot that kept me entertained until the very end. If you’re looking for a good laugh, I recommend adding Chief Zabu to your watch list.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
LizAlexander841Nov 2, 2016
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 betweenChief 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.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
lmcbride01Nov 2, 2016
This comedy excels where most comedies fail; it has an intelligent and stimulating story while also providing laughs. The two leads (Zack Norman and Allen Garfield) use their outstanding chemistry to play off each of their uniquely hilariousThis comedy excels where most comedies fail; it has an intelligent and stimulating story while also providing laughs. The two leads (Zack Norman and Allen Garfield) use their outstanding chemistry to play off each of their uniquely hilarious characters. I thoroughly enjoyed becoming immersed in this audacious sociopolitical comedy that is exceedingly relevant today.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
matzohboyNov 13, 2016
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 airChief 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!!!!… Expand
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10
davidtrotterJun 21, 2017
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 asChief 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.… Expand
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9
meganacarryJun 22, 2017
Are you looking for a good laugh full of outlandish humor, quick banter, and an eccentric story? Chief Zabu is the film for you! Two real estate agents attempt to gain money and power from a Polynesian island, Tiburaku, requesting admissionAre you looking for a good laugh full of outlandish humor, quick banter, and an eccentric story? Chief Zabu is the film for you! Two real estate agents attempt to gain money and power from a Polynesian island, Tiburaku, requesting admission into the United Nations. Their over the top plan and absurd view of the American Dream is relevant to the today’s society even though it is shot in the 80s. Ben and Sammy have quirky and light hearted personalities that bounce of the screen and keep you entertained. Chief Zabu is a business, buddy satire that brings you high key lighting, upbeat music, and a surprising ending! I highly suggest this film bringing you back in time to the best of the 80s and a whimsical view of a get rich scheme!… Expand
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9
JustinAndersonJun 20, 2017
Chief Zabu is a hilarious 80s satire that feels incredibly resonant today. The recently rediscovered film follows two real estate men, Ben and Sammy, as they attempt to gain political influence of Tiburaku, a recently independent nation.Chief Zabu is a hilarious 80s satire that feels incredibly resonant today. The recently rediscovered film follows two real estate men, Ben and Sammy, as they attempt to gain political influence of Tiburaku, a recently independent nation. The film sends up American culture, politics and capitalism deftly. Ben is naive, refusing to hear any bad news, and fumbles his way through the deals. Sammy has his head on straight, but is more interested in stand up comedy and women then insuring everything happens smoothly. The result is comedy of errors packed with witty banter between the characters. A scene that sticks out his when Ben explains to Sammy why he bought his Mercedes over a Cadillac. When Sammy disproves his logic, Ben shrugs it off telling him he does not understand finance. Fans of early Woody Allen or films like Dirty Rotten Scoundrels will find writers/directors Neil Cohen and Zack Norman’s Chief Zabu very entertaining. I highly recommend seeing it.… Expand
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9
IsaacLandry_12Jun 21, 2017
Outlandish, quirky, fast paced, and hilarious are all words that can describe this new comedy film called Chief Zabu. The story is about two sleazy New York real estate developers who decide to invest in a faraway island in Polynesia calledOutlandish, quirky, fast paced, and hilarious are all words that can describe this new comedy film called Chief Zabu. The story is about two sleazy New York real estate developers who decide to invest in a faraway island in Polynesia called Tiburaku. After hearing about all the potential money that they can receive, both Ben Sydney and Sammy Brooks start seeing dollar signs in front of their eyes. They think that nothing can get in the way of their big dream, but they soon realize how hard it is to turn their vision into reality. This is what makes the movie so incredibly funny, there’s no shortage of bizarre encounters and it’s full of satire and quick banter between the characters. Not to mention it’s also from the 1980’s! My favorite aspect of the film has to be the relationship that Sammy and Ben have, when they’re together it’s always a good time, these guys are total goofballs. Overall, I really liked watching this film and I highly recommend giving it try, you won’t regret it!… Expand
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9
GdipicoJun 15, 2017
I found Chief Zabu to be one of the funniest satires of the 80’s. I was myself laughing throughout the entire film. The get rich scheme is so over the type that it is absolutely hilarious! The friendship between Ben and Sammy was veryI found Chief Zabu to be one of the funniest satires of the 80’s. I was myself laughing throughout the entire film. The get rich scheme is so over the type that it is absolutely hilarious! The friendship between Ben and Sammy was very entertaining to watch and seemed realistic. The cast all worked so well together, which allowed the movie to flow perfectly! Overall, I loved this movie and recommend it to anyone who enjoys dry humor.… Expand
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10
mandyxJun 21, 2017
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Chief Zabu tells the hysterical story of two realtors who are sick and tired of their penny-paying, eye-rolling jobs and who devise a plan to trick their frivolous investor friend to buy the rights of a small island in French Polynesia. Exaggerating its potential prosperity, the businessmen attempt to convince their gullible friend to write a check for $1million. Made in the 80s and stored under the stairs until just recently, you’ll wonder why no one saw its potential and released it sooner! It’s a timeless film that captures the stereotypes of the business world and will leave you shaking your head, wondering if there truly are people like the characters in the real world. A must-see!… Expand
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9
JessRhiannonJun 21, 2017
“Chief Zabu” is quite the adventure, following its sporadic twists and turns, its snappy, quick paced dialogue and its bold, charismatic charm is quite the challenge, but one that is incredibly rewarding. The story follows two sleazy“Chief Zabu” is quite the adventure, following its sporadic twists and turns, its snappy, quick paced dialogue and its bold, charismatic charm is quite the challenge, but one that is incredibly rewarding. The story follows two sleazy businessmen, Ben Sydney and Sammy Brooks, who are trying to get their foot in the door with a big time businessman who’s planning an extremely lucrative deal with the leader of island paradise Tiburaku. In order for the deal to succeed, the two men must prod and pander the son of a wealthy entrepreneur who made his name building roads across the United States (Ed Lauter). Watching the two leads, Allen Garfied as Ben Sydney and Zack Norman as Sammy Brooks, get increasingly desperate and manic for success gives the film most of its charm and spirit. This brilliantly made social satire manages to maintain a sharp narrative coherence while indulging in wild eccentricities, and is a treat for audience. This critic is over the moon that “Chief Zabu,” was unearthed and distributed, as it is a joy and pleasure to watch, and an experience that no one should have to miss out on.… Expand
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9
MRosco1Jul 8, 2020
Chief Zabu is a film that stands against time, nearly forty years after its original creation, it makes for a well-rounded comedy with its play on some political troupes that seem all too familiar today. Ben Sydney (Allen Garfield) and SammyChief Zabu is a film that stands against time, nearly forty years after its original creation, it makes for a well-rounded comedy with its play on some political troupes that seem all too familiar today. Ben Sydney (Allen Garfield) and Sammy Brooks (Zack Norman) are looking to make it big, which is a little more stressful than they thought. Money, angst, and uncertainty combine together to make a nerve-racking experience for the pair but amusing for the audience. Through Ben and Sammy’s journey do we find a clever story that pokes fun at the political landscape with the use of a more facetious sense of humor. Chief Zabu is engaging and fun, something worth the watch if a good laugh is the goal.… Expand
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9
Sheila_SJul 13, 2020
The lost 80’s comedy film “Chief Zabu” is a wittily written story about two lively New York real estate agents who are seeking the artificial American dream of becoming rich. Their dream begins to come true when they try to invest inThe lost 80’s comedy film “Chief Zabu” is a wittily written story about two lively New York real estate agents who are seeking the artificial American dream of becoming rich. Their dream begins to come true when they try to invest in Tiburaku, a Polynesian island that’s seeking membership to the United Nation. Directors Neil Cohen and Zack Norman hit the nail on the head with the film’s timeless humor throughout the film. I really enjoyed the fast paced dialogue, which is elevated by the chemistry between the leading actors Allen Garfield and Zack Norman. I am so glad to see that this piece of cinematic history holds up just as well today as it would have 3 decades ago!… Expand
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10
RickErringtonJul 13, 2020
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 oftenThe 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!… Expand
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9
ChelseaBrownJul 14, 2020
Chief Zabu is a really enjoyable, comedic film with undertones about colonialism and greed that make this a very interesting watch. A great deal of the film is about the fictional country of Tiberaku falling into the public eye and becoming aChief Zabu is a really enjoyable, comedic film with undertones about colonialism and greed that make this a very interesting watch. A great deal of the film is about the fictional country of Tiberaku falling into the public eye and becoming a target for corporate greed as the lead characters start scrambling to secure distribution rights to the country and the real estate in order to pursue their own “American Dreams” at the cost of the country they are exploiting. The set design in the film, led by John Loggia and Tom Surgal creates an incredibly realistic world to the extent that Tiberaku feels as though its a real country. I found Chief Zabu to have a lot of depth and I would watch the film again.… Expand
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10
darla1451Jul 15, 2020
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 andFrom 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.… Expand
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9
savannah2020wikJul 20, 2020
This unique movie is a hidden gem in the comedy genre. It plays on American politics and perfectly reflects the satirical humor of John Landis' films of this era, such as “Coming to America”. “Chief Zabu” is an audacious socio-politicalThis unique movie is a hidden gem in the comedy genre. It plays on American politics and perfectly reflects the satirical humor of John Landis' films of this era, such as “Coming to America”. “Chief Zabu” is an audacious socio-political comedy about New York real estate entrepreneurs who scheme to take over a Polynesian country while its leader is in New York seeking admission to the UN. The film features a cast of stand-out character actors like Allen Garfield (playing Ben Sydney) and Zack Norman (as Sammy Brooks). This throwback satire comedy made me laugh out loud through its perfectly timed humor and well-crafted caricatures.… Expand
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9
effystonemJul 27, 2020
Chief Zabu is the ultimate 80’s hidden treasure that accurately (and humorously) portrays American business affairs. The titular Chief Zabu, President of the fictitious nation of Tiburaku, is on a quest to gain his UN membership. Meanwhile,Chief Zabu is the ultimate 80’s hidden treasure that accurately (and humorously) portrays American business affairs. The titular Chief Zabu, President of the fictitious nation of Tiburaku, is on a quest to gain his UN membership. Meanwhile, entrepreneurs Ben Sydney (Allen Garfield) and Sammy Brooks (Zack Norman) are along his side, only to seek profit in the end. I really enjoyed the fact that this film constantly kept me on my feet as to how things would work out in the end, while simultaneously keeping a huge grin on my face.… Expand
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9
katedelaneyJul 27, 2020
Chief Zabu is one of those zany comedies that makes you belly laugh without any of the common comedy cliches. It’s a truly unique film and I’m so glad this 80s gem was revisited and edited to be more relevant than ever! Zack Norman and AllenChief Zabu is one of those zany comedies that makes you belly laugh without any of the common comedy cliches. It’s a truly unique film and I’m so glad this 80s gem was revisited and edited to be more relevant than ever! Zack Norman and Allen Garfield’s delivery of their quick-witted and fast-paced dialogue is what makes the film really stand out. It truly feels like you’re watching two guys stumble their way through politics through constant misunderstandings and poor judgment. It’s a great commentary on the American Dream and a good watch when you need a few laughs.… Expand
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9
katieburnJul 28, 2020
Chief Zabu” is a newly-released ‘80s satirical comedy centered around American real estate developers Ben Sydney (Allen Garfield) and Sammy Brooks (Zack Norman). The dynamic duo’s extraordinary chemistry produces authentic ‘laugh out loud’Chief Zabu” is a newly-released ‘80s satirical comedy centered around American real estate developers Ben Sydney (Allen Garfield) and Sammy Brooks (Zack Norman). The dynamic duo’s extraordinary chemistry produces authentic ‘laugh out loud’ moments. The premise of aspiring political and social desires transcends time through the ongoing impact of egocentric and conspiring businessmen. In all, the film’s presents a comical and lighthearted take on American investments that will keep you coming back for years to come.… Expand
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10
RoseSmithJul 28, 2020
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 andChief 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.… Expand
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9
izzymoon13Jul 29, 2020
In a time when any reality seems possible, ‘Chief Zabu’ nails a fast-paced, wild, and relevant narrative of New York real estate developers contemplating a hefty deal with a recently freed, small Polynesian nation called “Tiburaku.” TheIn a time when any reality seems possible, ‘Chief Zabu’ nails a fast-paced, wild, and relevant narrative of New York real estate developers contemplating a hefty deal with a recently freed, small Polynesian nation called “Tiburaku.” The promise of money, respect, and political power inspires Ben Sydney (Allen Garfield) and Sammy Brooks (Zack Norman) to persuade the small nation’s president, Chief Henri Zabu, to allow them to finance and control the island’s development. The high-energy of Garfield and Norman brilliantly emphasize the quick, witty dialogue of their characters, especially in their banter, and I found the closer looks into characters’ lives hilariously revealed the absurdity within their reality. I appreciated that the film was far from predictable too. It’s a hidden gem and just goes to show the value of independent films.… Expand
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