W2TCH

Fire in Babylon (2011)

2011 • 1h 23m • Documentary • TV-14
On October 3, 2026
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CinemaSerf on Fire in Babylon

7/10 · May 27, 2023

This documentary offers an engaging look at the West Indies cricket team’s ascent to prominence beginning in the 1970s and their dominance that lasted for more than ten years, all against a historical context of colonialism and perceived superiority. The film incorporates exceptionally well-preserved and thoroughly researched archival material, along with compelling statements from numerous former players—many of whom have since been knighted—to tell an absorbing story involving uneven playing fields, devastating bowling performances, and the escalating stakes for both Caribbean athletes and their predominantly English opponents in what was considered a “gentleman’s” game. The intense rivalry is effectively portrayed, and the film includes a large number of participants whose observations regarding both sides of the competition—which felt like a battle to many—are captivating. As someone from Scotland, I don't have a strong passion for cricket, and seeing the English team suffer doesn’t particularly bother me; however, this production strives to present a fair perspective. It highlights how talent and resolve transformed these Test matches into legendary moments in sports history, viewed from both teams' viewpoints. The film is genuinely worthwhile, even if you aren’t invested in the sport—it portrays a triumphant and ultimately uplifting narrative of independence from colonial rule.

Source on TMDB