Zarafa (2012)

In the heart of Sudan, a courageous ten-year-old boy, Maki, defies destiny and escapes from the sinister grip of the ruthless slave trader, Moreno. An unexpected encounter with a distraught mother giraffe and her helpless calf propels him into an extraordinary journey. The calf, christened Zarafa, and Maki forge an unbreakable bond, one that carries them across the sweeping desert sands, cradled by the benevolent Bedouin, Hassan. As Hassan guides them from the Ottoman-occupied Alexandria to the opulent palace of King Charles X of France, Maki is driven by an unwavering vow - to shield Zarafa from harm's way. Their odyssey is not simply a passage through landscapes but a voyage that sails through the very essence of friendship, courage, and loyalty. Their tale is recounted by a grandfather, spinning the threads of this epic journey for his wide-eyed grandchildren. From battling slave traders, navigating the treacherous expanse of the desert, crossing paths with an audacious pirate, to finally reaching the city of lights, Paris, Maki and Zarafa's story is an unforgettable expedition from Africa to Europe. Yet, as the grandeur of Paris unfolds before them, Maki is faced with the ultimate test of his resolve. Can he uphold his promise to protect Zarafa? Thus unfolds a tale that weaves together the vibrancy of Africa with the charm of France, crafting a mesmerizing narrative that transcends continents and cements friendships.

Zarafa is an animation movie featuring Max Renaudin and directed by Rémi Bezançon.

It is possible to buy Zarafa on Amazon Video, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Vudu and YouTube.