Farewell to the King 1989
"In the midst of war, one man vanished into the jungle, and emerged as king."
Directed by John Milius, *Farewell to the King (1989)* plunges viewers into the dense jungles of Borneo during World War II, where an American soldier—played by Nick Nolte—escapes a brutal execution and finds refuge among headhunting tribes.
Director: John Milius
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Farewell to the King (1989) about?
*Farewell to the King* follows an American soldier who escapes execution in WWII Borneo and becomes a tribal leader among headhunters. His peaceful life is disrupted when the Japanese attack his new people, forcing him to confront his past and lead a war of vengeance.
Who directed Farewell to the King?
The film was directed by John Milius, known for his work on *Apocalypse Now* and *Red Dawn*.
Who stars in Farewell to the King?
The cast includes Nick Nolte as the lead, alongside Nigel Havers, Marilyn Tokuda, Frank McRae, and Gerry Lopez.
Is Farewell to the King (1989) worth watching?
While not as widely known, *Farewell to the King* offers a compelling mix of war drama and adventure with strong performances. Its unique setting and themes make it a hidden gem for fans of WWII films and character-driven epics.
How long is Farewell to the King?
The movie has a runtime of 117 minutes, or just under two hours.
🎥 Trailer
About Farewell to the King (1989) — Nick Nolte's WWII jungle epic with a twist
Directed by John Milius, *Farewell to the King (1989)* plunges viewers into the dense jungles of Borneo during World War II, where an American soldier—played by Nick Nolte—escapes a brutal execution and finds refuge among headhunting tribes. Surrounded by the untamed wilderness and a culture steeped in tradition, he gradually rises to become their reluctant leader, blurring the lines between outsider and sovereign. When a British commando team arrives, urging him to rejoin the fight against the Japanese, he resists—until a vengeful attack on his newfound people forces him to wage a brutal war of his own.
This gripping war-adventure tale blends the raw intensity of survival with themes of leadership, identity, and the clash between civilization and primal instincts. Milius crafts a narrative that feels like a lost epic from Conrad or Kipling, where loyalty is tested, vengeance is justified, and the jungle itself becomes a character. With stunning visuals, a brooding atmosphere, and Nolte's commanding performance, *Farewell to the King (1989)* stands as a unique exploration of war's moral complexities.