Action,Adventure,Science Fiction
United States of America,Australia
The Blood of Heroes, also known as Salute of the Jugger, was released in 1989 and directed by David Webb Peoples. The film stars Rutger Hauer as Sallow, the seasoned leader of a team who plays the violent sport of juggin. Sallow's team roams from town to town, challenging other teams for food, shelter, and money.
The world in which the film takes place is a post-apocalyptic wasteland where society has collapsed and resources are scarce. Juggin is the one form of entertainment that has survived and gained popularity among the remaining communities. The game involves two teams of five players each, armed with weapons, fighting for possession of a dog skull that serves as a ball. The objective is to score by placing the skull on a stake at the opposing team's end of the field.
Sallow's team consists of characters with unique skills. Mbulu, played by Delroy Lindo, is the team's top scorer and a fierce fighter. Gonzo, played by Vincent D'Onofrio, is the team's scout and strategist. Big Cimber, played by Anna Katarina, is the team's fighter and enforcer. When the team comes across the talented newcomer, Kidda, played by Joan Chen, Sallow begins to see the potential for their team to rise to the top.
Kidda is a peasant girl who has dreams of becoming a jugger champion. She joins Sallow's team and proves to be a valuable asset, not only as a skilled player but also because of her determination and ambition. However, Kidda's presence on the team also creates tension between Sallow and Mbulu, who begins to resent her for taking away his spotlight as the team's top scorer.
The Blood of Heroes is a gritty and violent film that explores themes of survival, loyalty, and passion. It is an underdog story of a team of outcasts who find purpose and glory in the brutal world of juggin. The film is a cult classic and has gained a following among fans of post-apocalyptic fiction and sports films.
