1916, Jordan. The war rages far away. Young Theeb lives in a Bedouin camp with his older brother Hussein, who has taken care of him since their father’s death. When a British officer and his guide, who are looking for an abandoned well, arrive at the camp, Hussein agrees to help. Fascinated by the stranger, Theeb accompanies his brother on this perilous journey across the desert expanse, where brigands lie in wait…

Picture gallery

It is unsurprising that at first glance Theeb attracts the eye thanks to its landscapes. It was shot in the Wadi Rum valley, the setting for Lawrence of Arabia and numerous other planets for Hollywood sci-fi movies. A fabulous backdrop for the first film by Jordanian director Naji Abu Nowar, who uses amateur actors for his story of a boy who must grow up quickly in the face of tragic events and violence. This well-known scenario seems a size too big for the boy in the role of Theeb, Jacir Eid Al-Hwietat. And even though he demonstrates a good feeling for directing, Nowar never really manages to meet his ambitions.