‘Kings of the Sun refers to the 2 Indian chiefs played by Chakiris and Brynner. Brynner is Chief Black Eagle, leader of a band of fierce hunters. Chakiris is Balam, chief of the more technically advanced tribe of farmers (Mayans). The movie explores some interesting culture clashes as the 2 groups attempt to co-exist. Intriguing side plots arise from the Mayan's tradition of human sacrifices, and a love triangle develops between the 2 chiefs and a Mayan princess.

Brynner is just superb in this movie. His portrayal of 'Black Eagle', the warrior king of the free-spirited tribe of hunters, is truly magnificent. He's fierce, magnetic and in the best shape of his life! The movie is worth watching just to see him strut across the screen!Chakiris in comparison seems miscast as the Mayan chief. He is no match for Brynner and comes across weak, petulant, and lacks conviction. That said, this movie offers some fascinating portrayal of early Mayan/Indian life, complete with realistic temple and village settings. Definitely worth watching.’ – comment from USA


Directed by
J. Lee Thompson

Writing credits
Elliott Arnold
James R. Webb

Cast (in credits order)
Yul Brynner .... Chief Black Eagle
George Chakiris .... Balam
Shirley Anne Field .... Ixchel
Richard Basehart .... Ah Min
Brad Dexter .... Ah Haleb
Barry Morse .... Ah Zok
Armando Silvestre .... Isatai
Leo Gordon .... Hunac Kell
Victoria Vetri .... Ixzubin
Rudy Solari .... Pitz
Ford Rainey .... The chief
rest of cast listed alphabetically:
Angel Di Steffano .... Balam
José Moreno .... The youth
James Coburn .... Narrator (uncredited)
Chuck Hayward .... Indian warrior friend to chief Yul Bryner (uncredited)

Runtime: 108 min
Country: USA
Language: English no subtitles
Color: Color (DeLuxe)
Sound Mix: Mono
Certification: Finland:K-16 / West Germany:12