The Black Tent is a compelling drama that explores the culture clash between British soldiers and Arab Bedouin during the Second World War. The film tells the story of Captain David Holland (Anthony Steel), a British soldier who becomes separated from his unit during the chaotic retreat through Libya. He seeks refuge with a group of Bedouin nomads who are travelling across the desert and falls in love with one of their women, Mabrouka (Anna Maria Sandri).
Holland soon finds himself caught between two worlds - the rigidly hierarchical military culture of his upbringing and the more fluid and egalitarian traditions of the Bedouin. He decides to marry Mabrouka and becomes accepted as one of the tribe. However, when his younger brother, Lieutenant Jimmy Holland (Donald Sinden), arrives in Libya and begins searching for him, his newfound happiness is threatened.
The film is notable for its breathtaking cinematography and for its portrayal of the Bedouin culture, which was relatively unknown to Western audiences at the time. The Black Tent was also one of the first British films to be shot on location in Libya, adding to its authenticity.