The movie presents a large-scale historical account of the rebellion in Sudan, spearheaded by the Mahdi (played by Sir Laurence Olivier) and his Dervish forces against British rule. When initial reluctance arose regarding sending soldiers to correct this setback, Prime Minister William Gladstone (Sir Ralph Richardson) opted instead to dispatch a formidable military leader – General Charles Gordon (Charlton Heston). A figure who inspired both admiration and animosity, he journeyed to the conflict area, and the film recounts his efforts to confront the religious zeal and yearning for independence within the local populace. Basil Dearden has created a visually striking production, and the battle sequences are notably grand in scope; however, the performances are less compelling, and Olivier’s depiction of the Mahdi feels somewhat absurd. The runtime is also considerable.

Source on TMDB