South African isiXhosa film ‘The Last Ranger’ is nominated for an Academy Award
In a momentous achievement for South African cinema, the isiXhosa film “The Last Ranger” has been nominated for Best Live Action Short Film at the 97th Academy Awards, scheduled for March 2025.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie received news of the Academy Award nomination.
McKenzie celebrated the nomination, saying, “We are confident that it will continue to make an impact on the global stage, and we eagerly await the Oscar ceremony on 2 March 2025, hopeful for yet another triumph.”
Directed by Cindy Lee, the film draws inspiration from the true story of Thandi, a rhino that miraculously survived a brutal poaching attack at the Kariega Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape, and the brave woman who took on the fight to protect these iconic animals against all odds.
Lee started her career as a copywriter at TBWA Hunt Lascaris. Eighteen 18 years ago, decided to try her hand at directing and is responsible for some of South Africa’s most popular adverts.
Cindy wrote her first screenplay, Horn, in 2014, about the horrors of rhino poaching that won at the New York Picture Start Film Festival.
In 2017, she was nominated for a South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) for her television directing debut for Sober Companion drama series.
The critically acclaimed short has already made waves, winning Best Short Narrative at the 2024 Pan African Film Festival (PAF).
With its stellar cast, including Avumile Qongqo, Liyabona Mroqoza, and Makhaola Ndebele, the film exemplifies South Africa’s cinematic storytelling power.
McKenzie extended his congratulations, stating, “Your hard work and dedication have helped to elevate South African cinema to new heights and kept our country in the eye of the world. Let us all rally behind this incredible production.”
“The Last Ranger” is a powerful tribute to conservation efforts and the resilience of South Africa’s wildlife, reinforcing the country’s place on the global stage.
IOL Entertainment