South Africa’s rallying cry for global rhino conservation efforts gets an Oscar nod

By Gift Sebiloane

The South African film industry has much to celebrate as the short film, ‘The Last Ranger‘ has been shortlisted for the 2025 Academy Awards in the category of Best Live Action Short Film.

Directed by Cindy Lee and produced by Six Feet Films, with Anele Mdoda serving as Executive Producer for Rose and Oaks Media, this powerful isiXhosa film tackles the pressing issue of rhino poaching and conservation efforts in South Africa.

The film follows the journey of a young girl named Litha, who embarks on an extraordinary adventure through a game reserve guided by the last remaining ranger, Khuselwa. Their experience takes an unforeseen twist when they are confronted by poachers, sparking a fierce struggle to defend the rhinos and revealing a tragic secret.

‘The Last Ranger‘ has garnered significant attention for its captivating storytelling and its contribution to raising awareness about the plight of rhinos in South Africa. But before its Oscar nomination, the film blazed a trail through the international film festival circuit, accumulating an impressive array of awards, including:

• Best Narrative Short Film at the Pan African Film Festival, San Diego International Film Festival, and Cordillera International Film Festival
• Green Fire Award at the American Conservation Film Festival (ACFF)
• Best Screenplay and Best Actress (for both Liyabona Mroqoza and Avumile Qongqo) at the Atlantic Film Festival
• Audience Choice Best Award for a Narrative Drama at the Indy Shorts International Film Festival

These accolades solidify its status as a compelling piece of cinema that speaks to universal theme of environmental justice. The film’s nomination for the Best Live Action Short Film category at the 2025 Oscars marks a historic moment for the local film industry and highlights the global importance of wildlife conservation.

In an official statement on Thursday, director Cindy Lee expressed her pride in the film’s recognition, stating, “To have an isiXhosa film about rhino poaching in the running for an Oscar makes me so proud. This film is unique and deserves to go all the way.”

Executive producer Anele Mdoda, also shared: “We are immensely proud to be involved in a project that addresses such a critical subject. Raising awareness about environmental conservation through storytelling is essential for driving meaningful change.”

The Oscar ceremony, hosted by Conan O’Brien, will take place on March 2. As the world awaits the announcement of the winners, ‘The Last Ranger‘ has already made a significant impact by bringing the critical issue of rhino poaching to the forefront of global conversation.

“This story was important to tell… It’s very rare that you can find a short film that can move you. This movie is 29 minutes max, and when you’re done you feel like you’ve watched three hours of ‘Titanic” — Anele Mdoda

A sobering call to action: tradition and conservation intertwined

Set against the haunting backdrop of South Africa’s poaching crisis—where 499 rhinos were slaughtered in 2023, an increase from 448 in 2022—the film delivers a sobering yet urgent message. Of the rhinos poached, 406 were killed on state properties and 93 on privately owned reserves and farms.

Through its harrowing narrative, The Last Ranger not only sheds light on these statistics but also calls viewers to action in the global fight against wildlife crime.

Furthermore, the film’s use of the Xhosa language adds a profound cultural dimension to its narrative, offering a unique perspective that enriches its storytelling.

By centering the film in IsiXhosa, ‘The Last Ranger‘ not only amplifies the voices of a South African community deeply connected to the land and its wildlife but also brings global recognition to one of the country’s official languages.

Delighted about this achievement, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie had this to say: “‘The Last Ranger‘ is a powerful tribute to the resilience of our wildlife and the unwavering dedication of conservationists who work tirelessly to safeguard our natural heritage. 

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the entire cast and crew of ‘The Last Ranger‘. 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 and showcase our support for local brilliance.”