Directed by Éric Barbier and co-written with Jennifer Devoldère, Zodi and Téhu: Brothers of the Desert is a family adventure film that hit theaters on February 8, 2023. Starring Yassir Drief and Alexandra Lamy, alongside Youssef Hajdi, the movie takes viewers through the vast landscapes of the Sahara and tells the story of the friendship between a young boy and a dromedary. After its theatrical run, the film will be broadcast on television on M6 on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 9:10 p.m.
Zodi is 12 years old and lives deep in the desert. One day, he comes across an orphaned baby dromedary, which he takes in, nurtures, and names Téhu. Soon, the young camel becomes his loyal companion and best friend. When veterinarian Julia notices Téhu’s exceptional running abilities, the idea of entering a prestigious race in Abu Dhabi suddenly seems like a golden opportunity for the future of their tribe.
But this potential also attracts dangerous attention. Chased by Tarek, a ruthless poacher determined to seize the dromedary, Zodi makes a daring escape and embarks on a perilous Sahara journey filled with trials and new friendships. The adventure becomes a coming-of-age story, where the young protagonist must safeguard Téhu, overcome his fears, and summon the courage to reach the camel arena in Abu Dhabi—with Julia’s help.
The project originated from a proposal by producer Farid Lahouassa, a former classmate of Éric Barbier at the IDHEC. It centers on a heartfelt friendship between a boy and a dromedary, designed to appeal to family audiences. After discovering camel races in Abu Dhabi and reading a screenplay by Jennifer Devoldère, the director decided to craft an exciting adventure accessible to children—one rooted in stunning natural settings and driven by a classic “quest” narrative.
The filming process was rooted in a quest for authenticity: during location scouting near Ouarzazate, the crew incorporated genuine nomadic families into the scene, who stayed on set for several weeks. The production also undertook a specialized effort to cast Téhu, aiming for a white dromedary that would be instantly recognizable. Two animals were identified near Dakhla and carefully prepared for the film to ensure their silhouette would be easily identifiable by younger viewers.
To portray Zodi, Yassir Drief was discovered during a casting in Belgium and trained extensively to perform opposite an animal, participating in auditions and on-site rehearsals to get comfortable. Meanwhile, Alexandra Lamy, who plays the veterinarian Julia, prepared for her role by meeting with a breeder and camel racing enthusiast in Frontignan to learn the necessary skills and build a genuine connection with the animal.
Music also plays a significant role: Mika marks his debut on a film soundtrack here, delivering over an hour of original compositions alongside several songs. Crafted to enhance the sense of pursuit, the grandeur of the landscapes, and the emotion of farewells, this musical dimension helps shape the film’s identity. It’s a family-friendly adventure designed to be enjoyed by viewers of all ages.
With its tone, Zodi and Téhu: Brothers of the Desert primarily targets children and their families, following in the tradition of classic coming-of-age stories and tales of friendship between humans and animals. It combines a series of challenges, light humor, and heartfelt emotion. The film also finds its place within director Éric Barbier’s body of work, known for expansive adaptations like The Promise of Dawn and Petit Pays. Here, his approach leans more directly toward a family-friendly audience.
Zodi and Téhu: Brothers of the Desert
Movie | 2023
Opening in theaters: February 8, 2023
Broadcast on M6: February 13, 2026, at 9:10 PM
Adventure, Comedy, Family | Duration: 1h50
Directed by Éric Barbier | Starring Yassir Drief, Alexandra Lamy, Youssef Hajdi
Original title: Zodi and Téhu: Brothers of the Desert
Country: France
Blending themes of friendship, a race against time, and breathtaking landscapes, Zodi and Téhu: Brothers of the Desert offers a straightforward and emotionally engaging adventure. It focuses on the bond between a child and his animal, set against the backdrop of community survival and the allure of profit.
To explore even further, check out our curated list of this week’s must-see movies, series, and TV shows, our guide to new releases across all streaming platforms, and today’s top pick what to watch on streaming today.
This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.
