One of the most expensive films about an Arabian subject matter ever funded by an Arab, there’s no doubt that Black Gold is a labour of love from producer Tarak Ben Ammar. Adapted from Hans Reusch’s 1957 novel South of the Heart and uniting a strong international cast, the film strives for epic, but instead comes off as kitsch – a fine mixture of ingredients, disappointingly over baked in the fiery desert sun.

When Dev Patel starred in the multi Oscar winning Slumdog Millionaire, his acting career seemed set to sky rocket. But the 20 year old from Harrow has spoken out against prejudiced Hollywood casting directors, who have limited his offers to the role of terrorist, cab driver, or brainy geek.