Zarafa

Zarafa reimagines the giraffe that first charmed the French court, told with a lush hand drawn aesthetic rather than glossy realism. A bold, restless boy named Maki slips away into a desert night, escaping a life of captivity. In the glow of the savannah he bonds with Zarafa, an infant giraffe who shares his status as an orphan, and with Hassan, a nomadic prince of the desert. The trio heads toward Alexandria, where the Pasha arranges an audience with King Charles of France. The plan is to present the animal as a royal gift, sending it by sea toward a distant court. Across sweeping landscapes and vast skies, their friendship anchors the story through peril and wonder.

Directed by Jean Christophe Lie and produced by Rémi Bezançon and Alexander Abela, Zarafa is a French Belgian animated feature rooted in traditional drawing with a vibrant palette. Max Renaudin voices Maki and Simon Abkarian voices Hassan; released in 2012.

With a budget of 10.75 million, Zarafa grossed around 12.2 million worldwide, delivering a modest but respectable showing for a family oriented art house adventure rather than a mainstream blockbuster.

Critics praised its striking visuals and the emotional core built around friendship, courage and cultural exchange. The film blends peril with warmth and offers a gentle meditation on freedom and belonging, making it a memorable experience for families who value artistic animation.