I think the movie is actually pretty complimentary to the Zulus. Not that something like that has ever stopped the PC crowd from fussing over something where they think they can get attention for themselves. Aside from that, the movie actually got Chief Buthelezi, who is the modern day leader of the Zulus, to participate in the filming. Maybe that has something to do with the lack of protests, although I don't think Mandela and his people are very favorably disposed towards the Zulus.
I agree, the Zulus were shown as a well disciplined army, using tactics, not just fatalist, savage attackers.
Technology and a defensible position, along with a lot of courage defeated them, but they fought well.
From: http://www.rorkesdriftvc.com/index.html
At Rorke's Drift, eleven Victoria Crosses were awarded. Seven to the 2nd Battalion, 24th (2nd Warwickshire) Regiment of Foot, one to the Army Medical Department, one to the Royal Engineers, one to the Commissariat and Transport Department and one to the Natal Native Contingent.
And here: http://www.victoriacross.net/unit.asp?unit=15
for the 24th Regiment (later The South Wales Borderers)VC Awards.