In 1904, Morocco is a source of conflict among Germany, France and the British Empire, as each attempts to gain influence in the country.
“The Wind and the Lion” weaves historic facts into violent fictional adventure. Eden Perdicari (Candice Bergen) along with her two children, are kidnapped by Mulai Ahmed er Raisuli (Sean Connery) a Berber in Tangier. They are kept hostage in the rif, an area a great distance from any potential rescuers.
As their journey through the desert continues, Mrs. Perdicaris moves from anger when first kidnapped, to respect and even to love the Raisuli, if only a little. He in turn, falls in love with her.
Mrs. Perdicaris proves a delightful match and often outwits Raisuli to his embarrassment and consternation. They are often perplexed at the ideology, stance, outlook and thoughts of the other. Amusingly, Raisuli’s response in these situations, “Mrs. Perdicaris, you are a lot of trouble!”
He and Roosevelt (Brian Keith) communicate back and forth over the return of the Perdicaris family and in one letter, Raisuli compares the two men thus: “I (Raisuli), like the lion, must remain in my place, while you, like the wind, will never know yours.”
Mrs. Perdicaris makes her escape into the arms of villains much less caring, and only then realizes her folly. Thankfully, the Raisuli manages to rescue her.
The final lines in the film are delivered by the Raisuli on horseback with one of his men. He tells the Raisuli they have lost everything. The Reaisuli’s reply is, “Isn’t there anything in your life you would lose everything for?”
Hopefully you have an opportunity to enjoy this delightful movie. It’s probably considered outdated by today’s standards, and that perplexes me, for a well acted film is always great. Just saying! Take care all.
Covert Novelist 