The Child of the Desert: Gilles de Maistre's Family Adventure Set in the Sahara

Directed by Gilles de Maistre and co-written with Prune de Maistre, The Child of the Desert is an upcoming French family adventure film set to hit theaters on April 8, 2026. Known for stories that spotlight childhood perspectives and a deep connection to nature (Wolf and Lion, The Last Jaguar), the director here offers a tale inspired by true events, blending themes of heritage, memory, and discovery. The film aims to reach a broad audience, suitable for children aged 8 and up.

The story kicks off with Sun, a 12-year-old girl who discovers that the tale her grandfather has always told her — about a child lost in the desert and raised by ostriches — is not just a legend. Troubled by this revelation, she embarks on a quest for the truth deep within the Sahara Desert, determined to uncover who her grandfather really was and the origins of this extraordinary story.

Her journey leads her to piece together the life of Hadara, a child born into a nomadic family who was lost at just two years old during a fierce sandstorm. Abandoned in a harsh and unforgiving landscape, he is taken in by a flock of ostriches that sustain him for nearly a decade in the vast Sahara. This extraordinary tale of survival becomes the emotional core of the film, blurring the lines between myth and reality.

The official trailer will be released as soon as the distributor publishes it.

The Desert Child

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Filmed on location, The Child of the Desert continues the cinematic style of Gilles de Maistre, known for his majestic landscapes and immersive storytelling. The Sahara is portrayed as both a formidable and captivating landscape, playing a vital role in the story. The film weaves together a modern-day journey with a historical narrative, centered on themes of heritage and family memories.

The cast features Nahel Tran, Zayn Sekkat, and Nahïl Bouazzaoui, alongside Kev Adams. The film strikes a balance with an approachable tone, blending adventure, emotion, and educational elements, while exploring universal themes such as identity, family ties, and the resilience of the human spirit in extreme circumstances.

Through its humanistic approach and its setting in a story inspired by real events, The Child of the Desert continues the tradition of coming-of-age tales aimed at young audiences, while also inviting a broader reflection on the line between storytelling and historical truth.

The Child of the Desert
Film | 2026
Release in theaters: April 8, 2026
Adventure, Family | Suitable for ages 8 and up
Directed by Gilles de Maistre | Starring Nahel Tran, Zayn Sekkat, Nahïl Bouazzaoui, Kev Adams
Country: France

The Child of the Desert

Through a coming-of-age journey and an extraordinary survival story, The Desert Child offers a family adventure driven by emotion, stunning landscapes, and the perspective of childhood—true to the world created by its director.

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