South Africa’s The Last Ranger, directed by Cindy Lee, has earned an Academy Award nomination in the category of Best Live Action Short Film. The exciting news was revealed on Thursday, January 23, during the announcement of the 97th Academy Award nominees. The event was co-hosted by comedians Rachel Sennott and Bowen Yang in a live presentation at the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Los Angeles.
Produced by Six Feet Films and supported by media personality Anele Mdoda, The Last Ranger is making waves internationally. The film tells a gripping story set in South Africa, focusing on rhino poaching and conservation efforts. It follows Litha, a young girl (played by Liyabona Mroqoza), who embarks on a life-changing journey through a game reserve with the last remaining ranger, Khuselwa (Avumile Qongqo). Their adventure takes a dark turn when they are ambushed by poachers, leading to a battle to protect the endangered rhinos and uncover a shocking secret.
Director Cindy Lee expressed her pride and excitement after the nomination. “To have an IsiXhosa film about rhino poaching in the running for an Oscar makes me so proud,” she said. “This film is unique and deserves to go all the way.”
Anele Mdoda, who served as an executive producer for the film, also celebrated the nomination with a heartfelt message on social media. “South Africa! We have been nominated for an Oscar!” she announced to her followers. Mdoda expressed her confidence in the film’s chances, saying, “The Last Ranger is going to win it and bring it home.”
She also praised the team behind the project. “Salute to Cindy Lee and David Lee for writing and telling an amazing story that needs to be heard,” Mdoda wrote. “Take a bow Avumile Qongqo and Liyabona Mroqoza for delivering earth-shattering performances. Salute to my fellow Executive Producers, Will Hawkes & Darwin Shaw for opening a door I never thought I would be worthy to walk through.”
Thanking her team, Mdoda also shared gratitude toward her co-owners at Rose and Oaks, Frankie Fire and Paul Buys. “We didn’t do it, we are currently doing it!” she said, emphasizing the collaborative effort behind the film’s success.
With its powerful storytelling and strong performances, The Last Ranger has already made a significant impact, and now, it has its sights set on the Oscars.
