A superb cast and a promising story full of exciting elements can't save what becomes a turgid chase movie that drags the viewer endlessly through Middle East sand dunes. Caine's beautiful black wife, Johnson, is kidnaped by Ustinov, a loathsome slave trader who intends to make a fortune
on her sale. Director Fleischer dwells painfully on the brutalities visited upon the slaves, particularly the females, as Ustinov's henchmen whip, kick punch and herd them from oasis to oasis, heading for purchase points. Following at a less than hectic pace is Caine, aided at times by Harrison,
an adventurer, Holden, a helicopter pilot, and Bedi, a fierce nomad who has an old scor...
Released:
1979
Rated:
R
Length:
117 mins