Desert Flower is the story of Somali model Waris Dirie. Starring Ethiopian model Liya Kebede, the film is based on Dirie’s best-selling book (written in 1998).
After fleeing Somalia to avoid an arranged marriage at age 13, Dirie was discovered at local McDonald’s by renowned photographer Terence Donovan. Her story is truly inspirational and brings truth to the saying “you can have anything you want in this world if you’re willing to pay the price.” It’s amazing how much Kebede looks like Dirie. The movie also stars Sally Hawkins and Anthony Mackie and was directed by Sherry Horman. Desert Flower – which was originally released in 2009 in 20 countries – hits select US theatres March 18.