Carroll Ballard (The Black Stallion) directs the exciting story of 12-year-old Xan, who decides to return the cheetah he raised from a cub to the wild instead of allowing pursuers to place it in captivity. Harsh South African landscapes, stalking lions, crocodiles, river rapids and a mysterious drifter who may intend to turn the big cat in for cash - all will test Xan's courage and resolve.