Zardoz Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A hairy-chested Sean Connery in a red diaper and ponytail fights telepathic hippies with the help of a giant floating head that vomits guns because death is nature’s way and immortality is just a big downer, man.

🍿 Zardoz: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The World of 2293: Brutals and Exterminators

The film opens in 2293. Earth is divided into two groups: the Brutals, who live a harsh, violent life in the Outlands, and the Eternals, who reside in a technologically advanced, isolated paradise called the Vortex. The Brutals are controlled by the Exterminators, a group of warriors who worship Zardoz, a giant flying stone head. Zardoz provides the Exterminators with weapons, proclaiming ‘The gun is good! The penis is evil!’ and commanding them to kill and control the Brutal population. This bizarre system maintains a precarious balance of power and ignorance.

Zed’s Journey into the Vortex

Zed, an Exterminator, begins to question the nature of Zardoz and the world he knows. He discovers a library and learns to read, uncovering the truth about Zardoz and the history of the world before its destruction. Driven by his newfound knowledge, Zed stows away inside the Zardoz head and enters the Vortex, disrupting the Eternals’ carefully maintained existence. This intrusion sets off a chain of events that challenges the foundations of their society.

The Eternals’ Decadence and Boredom

Inside the Vortex, Zed encounters the Eternals, who have achieved immortality and possess advanced psychic abilities. However, their immortality has led to boredom, apathy, and a loss of purpose. They are divided into factions such as the Apathetics (catatonic and unable to experience joy), and Renegades (eternals punished by age). Zed’s presence exposes the flaws and stagnation of their society, forcing them to confront their own decay and the meaninglessness of their existence. Their leader Arthur Frayn is reborn as a dandyish figure who knows exactly the impact Zed will have on their society. Zed is there to inject death back into their stagnant society.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Zed (Sean Connery): A savage Exterminator from the Outlands who infiltrates the Vortex and challenges the Eternals’ stagnant existence.
• Consuella (Charlotte Rampling): A hard-lined Eternal who initially views Zed as a threat but eventually softens and forms a bond with him.
• Arthur Frayn (Niall Buggy): The Eternal who created the Zardoz persona to control the Brutals and is revealed to be a key figure in Zed’s destiny.
• May (Sara Kestelman): An Eternal scientist who is fascinated by Zed and seeks to understand his evolutionary superiority.
• Friend (John Alderton): A cynical and hedonistic Eternal who becomes disillusioned with the Vortex and seeks its destruction.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Zardoz: “Zardoz speaks to you, His chosen ones.” – Zardoz announces his presence to the Exterminators, his loyal followers.
• Zardoz: “You have been raised up from Brutality, to kill the Brutals who multiply, and are legion. To this end, Zardoz your God gave you the gift of the Gun. The Gun is good!” – The core philosophy dictated by Zardoz, justifying the Exterminators’ violent actions.
• Zardoz: “The Gun is good!” – A key saying that defines the world and motivations of the Exterminators.
• Consuella: “In hunting you, I have become you.” – Consuella realizes that her intense pursuit of Zed has transformed her, blurring the lines between hunter and hunted.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $1.57M
• Domestic Gross: N/A
• Worldwide Gross: $7.23K

💥 Zardoz Reviews

Personal Review

Okay, ‘Zardoz’ is bonkers, but I kind of loved it! Sean Connery in that outfit? Unforgettable. It’s so out there, so 70s, and it just throws all these crazy ideas at you about life, death, and society. The whole ‘gun is good, penis is bad’ thing is hilarious but also a little disturbing. It’s the kind of movie you watch with friends and then argue about for hours afterward. Definitely a unique experience!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of unconventional science fiction”
  • “Viewers interested in philosophical themes”
  • “Those who appreciate cult films”
  • “People who enjoy movies that defy easy categorization”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Graphic violence”
  • “Nudity”
  • “Sexual content”
  • “Disturbing imagery”

Professional Reviews

• Indiewire: “Though visually arresting, Zardoz’s narrative complexity often overshadows its potential. The film grapples with themes of immortality and societal control but struggles to deliver a coherent message. Connery’s performance is committed, but the bizarre plot elements can be distracting.
• Screen Anarchy: “Zardoz presents a wildly imaginative, albeit uneven, vision of the future. Boorman’s direction is ambitious, blending sci-fi with fantasy. While the movie’s originality is undeniable, its execution sometimes falters, resulting in a film that is as fascinating as it is flawed.

Audience Reactions

Viewers found the film to be strangely compelling despite its confusing plot and bizarre visuals.: The originality and boldness of the movie’s themes, and visual aesthetic.

Overall Consensus: Zardoz is a polarizing cult film known for its bizarre plot, unique visuals, and ambitious themes. While some find it confusing and pretentious, others appreciate its originality and thought-provoking nature.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The opening scene featuring Arthur Frayn’s disembodied head was added after the film’s initial release in an attempt to clarify the complex plot, but director John Boorman later expressed dissatisfaction with the scene.”
• “Sean Connery’s skimpy costume was partly a result of the film’s relatively low budget, as more elaborate outfits were deemed too expensive.”
• “The film was shot primarily in Ireland, near John Boorman’s home, utilizing the landscape to create the otherworldly setting.”

🖥️ How to Watch Zardoz?

As of [Current Date], Zardoz is available for rent or purchase on various digital platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies. Physical copies on DVD and Blu-ray are also available through major retailers. Check local listings and streaming services for availability as it may vary by region and provider. Unfortunately, at this time, Zardoz is not part of any major streaming subscription like Netflix, Hulu or HBO Max.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Zardoz, you might like these similar films:

• Logan’s Run (1976): Explores a seemingly utopian future society that hides a dark secret related to population control and the value of life.
• A Clockwork Orange (1971): Shares the dystopian themes and commentary on social engineering and the nature of free will.
• The Holy Mountain (1973): Shares the same avant-garde approach to filmmaking, and exploration of esoteric themes and surreal imagery.
• Brazil (1985): Features a bizarre, dystopian future with dark humor, commentary on bureaucracy, and a unique visual style, similar to Zardoz’s unconventional aesthetic.

🛒 Zardoz Related Products

• Zardoz (Blu-ray): Own a piece of cult cinema history! The film is beautifully restored in high definition, and it contains all special features. Dive deeper into the world of Zardoz with director’s commentary and behind-the-scenes footage.
• Zardoz: The Novel: Dive deep into the expansive universe of Zardoz with the official novelization by John Boorman. It includes insights and lore not present in the film itself. This book lets you relive the story, discover new depth and character relationships, and further explore every theme.
• Zardoz – Limited Edition T-Shirt: Show your love for Zardoz with this exclusive T-shirt! Featuring iconic imagery from the film and made from high-quality materials. Celebrate this film’s uniqueness, style and bold storytelling through fashionable clothing.
• Zardoz Poster: A high-quality print of the film’s iconic poster. It has bold colors and dynamic composition and is perfect for any fan looking to adorn their space with a piece of cinema history. Own an art piece from a classic film that will impress any fan.

🎧 Soundtrack

Zardoz features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Symphony No. 7 Op. 92 II. Allegretto” – performed by Ludwig van Beethoven

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

What is Zardoz? Why is it called Zardoz?

Ever wondered what ‘Zardoz’ actually *means*? This video breaks down the title and its connection to the film’s bizarre story. Honestly, it’s way deeper than I expected!

WE MIGHT BE DRESSING LIKE THIS SOON

Think ‘Zardoz’ is just a crazy movie? This video argues it might be a glimpse into our fashion future! I’m not sure I’m ready for that much red diaper, but it’s a fun watch.

The message of Zardoz

Want the ‘secret to life’ straight from Zardoz himself? This super short clip delivers just that (kind of)! It’s so bizarre, you have to see it.

✨ Rate