Watch Desert Riders

Desert Riders is a 2011 documentary that explores the world of Arabian horse racing, specifically focusing on the lives of those who participate in the sport in Jordan. The film is directed by Vic Sarin, and aims to give viewers an inside look at the unique culture and traditions surrounding this ancient practice. Throughout the film, we follow a group of young men who have dedicated their lives to training and racing Arabian horses. We see them waking up before dawn, heading out to the stables to feed and groom their horses, and then spending long hours out on the open desert, practicing their riding skills and getting their horses into shape. We also see them competing in races, going up against other riders and their horses from all over the region.

One of the most unique aspects of Desert Riders is the way it captures the beauty and majesty of the Arabian horse. These horses are renowned for their grace and speed, and the film does an excellent job of showcasing their athleticism and beauty as they run across the desert. We see them kicking up clouds of dust as they gallop towards the finish line, their muscles rippling with each stride.

But the film is about more than just horse racing. It also delves into the complex cultural and social dynamics that surround this sport in Jordan. We see how the riders and trainers are often from marginalized communities, and how they see horse racing as a way to gain recognition and status in their society. We also see how the sport is deeply tied to the traditions of Bedouin culture, with many of the riders drawing on ancient techniques and knowledge passed down through generations.

In addition to the riders themselves, the film also introduces us to some of the horses, who are just as much of a focus as their human counterparts. We learn about the different breeds of Arabian horses, and see how each one has its own unique personality and temperament. We also learn about the training methods used to prepare these horses for racing, and how important it is for the riders to establish a strong bond with their horses in order to get the most out of their performance.

Overall, Desert Riders is a fascinating and visually stunning documentary that offers a glimpse into a world that is largely unknown and unseen. It celebrates the ancient traditions of Bedouin culture while also showing how these traditions are adapting and evolving in the modern world. It showcases the beauty and power of the Arabian horse, and the deep bond that exists between these animals and their human companions. And it ultimately highlights the extraordinary passion and dedication of the young men who dedicate their lives to this sport, and the many challenges they must overcome to succeed.

Desert Riders is a 2014 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0.