DURING an expedition in Africa, master explorer and treasure-seeking pirate Dirk (McConaughey) saves World Health Organisation scientist Eva Rojas (Cruz) from assassination and subsequently becomes embroiled in her crusade to reveal the cause of the deadly contagion sweeping through Mali.

Aided by his plucky sidekick Al Giordino (Zahn) and colleague Rudi (Wilson), Dirk ventures into West Africa, where he unlocks the key to the mystery deep below the shifting sands of the desert.

Sahara is a well-crafted slice of escapist entertainment that makes good use of its exotic locations and some energetic set pieces.

Damon Smith