Khumba

On the savanna of Africa a young zebra with only half its stripes is blamed for a long drought and banished from his herd. Labeled as unlucky and cursed, he sets out to find his missing markings and clear his name. He is joined by an overprotective wildebeest who worries for his safety and a flamboyant ostrich who chases trouble and laughs at danger. As the trio travels through arid lands and crowded water holes, they face predators and weather, test trust, and discover that courage comes from friends as much as from flank and fin. Their quest becomes a quest for belonging as well as stripes.

Directed by Anthony Silverston, Khumba is a 2013 animated feature from Triggerfish Animation Studio. The story comes from creators Raffaella Delle Donne and Jonathan Roberts, blending original storytelling with a vibrant South African animation sensibility. The film combines lush, stylized visuals with lively action and kid friendly humor.

Khumba grossed approximately 27.2 million worldwide against a 20 million budget, making it a modest but respectable performer for a mid-range animated feature from Africa.

Even if it didn't become a global blockbuster Khumba helped put Triggerfish on the map and added to the growing wave of Africa inspired animation reaching international audiences. Its star filled cast and bright, stylized visuals offered a family friendly alternative in theaters and on home video. The project also showcased a South African studio's ability to produce a polished, commercially viable animated feature that appeals beyond local audiences.

Critics described Khumba as a bright and energetic family adventure with plenty of color and humor, though some noted pacing hits and misses. Viewers respond well to the bond between the main zebra and his unlikely companions and the movie's message that identity is not about stripes but about courage and kindness. The film leans into universal themes of belonging, friendship, and teamwork, delivering a warm, reassuring tone that fits well with home viewing while still offering enough action to keep younger audiences engaged.