The South African film The Last Ranger has earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Live Action Short Film, marking a significant milestone for the country’s film industry. Directed by Cindy Lee, the film has been nominated for the prestigious honor at the 97th Academy Awards, scheduled to take place in March 2025.
The Last Ranger is an isiXhosa film that draws inspiration from real events in South Africa’s Eastern Cape. The film tells the remarkable story of Thandi, a rhino that survived a brutal poaching attempt at the Kariega Game Reserve, and the courageous woman who fought to protect these endangered animals.
Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie expressed his immense pride and excitement at the nomination, highlighting the film’s powerful portrayal of resilience. “This film is not just a narrative about wildlife, but a tribute to the unwavering dedication of conservationists who strive to protect South Africa’s natural heritage,” McKenzie said. “The performances by Avumile Qongqo, Liyabona Mroqoza, and Makhaola Ndebele, as well as the work of screenwriters David Lee, Darwin Shaw, and Will Hawks, are a testament to South Africa’s rich tradition of storytelling.”
The film’s success has already been recognized on the international stage, having won Best Short Narrative at the 2024 Pan African Film Festival (PAFF), further cementing its impact. McKenzie expressed optimism that the film will continue to make an impression globally, “We eagerly await the Oscar ceremony, hopeful for another triumph that will elevate South African cinema.”
With its poignant narrative and dedication to portraying real-life challenges in wildlife conservation, The Last Ranger stands as a symbol of the talent and innovation emerging from South Africa’s filmmaking community. McKenzie extended his congratulations to the entire cast and crew, urging all South Africans to support the film as it makes waves on the global stage.