10 Desert Drama Films to Watch

Description: This war drama, set during the North African Campaign of World War II, focuses on the British 7th Armoured Division, known as the Desert Rats, and their defense of Tobruk against Rommel's forces.

Fact: The film was directed by Robert Wise, who later directed "The Sound of Music" and "West Side Story."

Description: This biographical epic follows T.E. Lawrence's journey through the Arabian desert, capturing his role in the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire, showcasing the harsh beauty of the desert and the complexities of leadership.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Jordan, Morocco, and Spain, with the desert scenes being particularly challenging due to the extreme conditions.

Description: Set in the Sahara, this film explores the disintegration of a marriage as a couple travels through the desert, facing both physical and emotional trials that test their relationship to its limits.

Fact: The film features a haunting score by Ryuichi Sakamoto, who also composed the music for "The Last Emperor."

Description: This epic tale of love and war unfolds in the North African desert during World War II, where a badly burned man recounts his past to a nurse, weaving a tapestry of romance, betrayal, and survival.

Fact: The film won nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and was adapted from Michael Ondaatje's novel of the same name.

Description: Set in the harsh Australian outback, this film explores themes of justice, revenge, and family loyalty as a man is forced to hunt down his own brother to save another from execution.

Fact: The film's script was written by Nick Cave, who also composed the score, adding a unique, gritty atmosphere to the narrative.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows a group of prisoners escaping from a Siberian gulag, trekking through the Gobi Desert in their quest for freedom, highlighting the human will to survive against all odds.

Fact: The film's director, Peter Weir, is known for his meticulous attention to historical detail and authenticity in settings.

Description: This film recounts the real-life journey of Robyn Davidson, who trekked 1,700 miles across the Australian desert with her dog and four camels, exploring themes of solitude, self-discovery, and the bond between humans and animals.

Fact: The film was shot in the actual locations of Davidson's journey, ensuring an authentic portrayal of the desert environment.

Description: Set during World War I in the Arabian Peninsula, this film follows a young Bedouin boy named Theeb, who must navigate the desert and his own coming of age amidst political turmoil.

Fact: "Theeb" was the first Jordanian film to be nominated for an Academy Award in the Best Foreign Language Film category.

Description: A silent film classic, this romantic drama set in the Sahara Desert follows the adventures of a young sheik who falls in love with a dancer, blending action, romance, and the exotic allure of the desert.

Fact: It was one of the last major silent films produced and helped solidify Rudolph Valentino's status as a silent film icon.

Description: This Argentine film tells the story of a maid who, after years of service, embarks on a journey through the Atacama Desert, finding freedom and self-discovery along the way.

Fact: The film was shot in the Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on Earth, providing a stark and beautiful setting for the narrative.