Tafiti – Across the Desert (2025) is a German animated family adventure film blending comedy and heart. Directed by Nina Wels and based on the popular children’s book series by Julia Boehme and Julia Ginsbach, the movie brings the African savannah to life through colorful 3D animation.
The film features German voice performances by Cosima Henman, Bürger Lars Dietrich, Dustin Semmelrogge, Kathleen Renish. The story follows Tafiti, a curious young meerkat who leaves his desert home on a dangerous journey to save his grandfather. Along the way, he forms an unlikely friendship with Bristles, a cheerful wild boar.
Based on the beloved Tafiti book franchise, the film premiered at the Munich Film Festival in June 2025.
Tafiti – Across the Desert Age Rating
Tafiti – Across the Desert is officially rated PG for action/peril and mild language. This rating reflects moments of danger involving animals, mild suspense, and brief verbal insults common in animated family films. The overall tone remains gentle and reassuring, with no graphic or disturbing material.
Violence & Peril
The film contains mild animated peril. A key plot point involves a snake bite, which is implied rather than shown graphically. Characters face environmental dangers such as deserts, predators, and storms. These moments may create brief tension but are resolved positively and without lasting harm. The violence is non-graphic and clearly fantasy-based.
Language
Language is very mild throughout. There are a few playful insults and teasing remarks between characters, but no profanity. The dialogue is age-appropriate and consistent with G-rated or PG animated films.
Mature Themes
The story explores themes of illness, fear of loss, bravery, friendship, and overcoming prejudice. Tafiti’s motivation to save his grandfather may feel emotional for sensitive children, but the film handles these topics gently. There is no sexual content, nudity, substance use, or smoking.
Is Tafiti – Across the Desert Suitable for Kids?
Ages 4–5: With Guidance. Younger children may find some chase scenes or the snake bite moment slightly scary. Parental reassurance may help.
Ages 6–8: Yes. This age group is the ideal audience. The adventure, humor, and message of friendship are well suited.
Ages 9–12: Yes. Older kids may enjoy the story but find it simple. The themes still offer positive lessons.
Final Recommendation: Tafiti – Across the Desert is best suited for children ages 6 and up, with parental guidance recommended for younger viewers.
What Parents Can Do
- Talk with children about facing fears and helping loved ones during difficult times.
- Explain that animal danger in the film is fictional and resolved safely.
- Encourage discussion about friendship and teamwork across differences.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Tafiti – Across the Desert?
A: The film is rated PG for action/peril and mild language.
Q: Is Tafiti – Across the Desert appropriate for young children?
A: Yes, especially for ages 6 and up, with mild suspense suitable for most kids.
Q: Are there scary scenes in the movie?
A: There are brief moments of danger involving animals, but nothing graphic or intense.
Q: Does the film contain bad language or insults?
A: Only very mild teasing and no profanity.
Q: Is there any sexual content or nudity?
A: No, the film contains no sexual content.
Q: Where can families watch Tafiti – Across the Desert?
A: Fox Entertainment releases Tafiti: Across the Desert in theaters across the U.S. and Canada on January 30, 2026.
Official Website: Little Dream Entertainment