Award-winning actor Kwenzo Ngcobo has been cast in the international film Poacher’s Moon, alongside fellow South African star Ntando Zondi. The duo will join an impressive cast that includes Muzi Mthabela, Thami Mngqolo, and Hollywood actor Stelio Sevante.
Poacher’s Moon, produced and directed by international actor Tom Datnow, tackles themes of extreme poverty and rhino poaching, set against the backdrop of apartheid-era South Africa. The film tells the story of two childhood friends from different racial and economic backgrounds who, due to the harsh realities of their environment, are forced to become enemies as they fight for survival and attempt to reclaim their lost innocence.
The film will be shot in Kimberly, Northern Cape, on Tom Datnow’s childhood farm, a location that holds special meaning to the director. According to DFA News, this is where Datnow first bonded with his late friend, Michael Brand, inspiring the heart of the film.
Kwenzo Ngcobo is no stranger to the screen, having gained recognition for his roles in Champions, Scandal!, and The Wife. Ntando Zondi, known for his portrayal of a character in Shaka Ilembe, is also poised to make a significant impact in Poacher’s Moon.
Entertainment commentator Phil Mphela shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), sparking excitement among fans and industry professionals alike.
SABC News also reported on the film, highlighting its importance in telling a unique and powerful story. The film is not just about rhino poaching and the difficult journey of its characters; it also aims to provide short-term employment for locals in the Northern Cape, boosting the region’s economy. The film will raise awareness of the province, while also offering a glimpse into the country’s collective unwritten history.
Director Mqondisi Ngubane elaborated on the film’s emotional core: “This is a story of hope, a story of a black boy and a white young boy growing up on a farm and having to navigate social issues. It tells the story of two innocent little boys having to navigate life with all the challenges.”
The story of Poacher’s Moon promises to capture the resilience of childhood friendship against the backdrop of South Africa’s turbulent transition from apartheid to democracy, making it a film with both personal and national significance.
CASTING NEWS:
Kwenzo Ngcobo in international film
Kwenzo stars in London based actor – director Tom Datnow’s new film called “Poacher’s Moon”.
Kwenzo plays Moremi Zungu – a man gripped in realities of poverty and crime in a backdrop of rhino poaching.#KgopoloReports pic.twitter.com/rSpM1bbbYr
— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) January 26, 2025CASTING NEWS:
Ntando Zondi in international film
Best known for playing young Shaka in Shaka ILembe, Ntando is starring in new film “Poacher’s Moon”.
The film is directed by Tom Datnow and was shot in Northern Cape. #KgopoloReports pic.twitter.com/TEBfzwQTBg
— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) January 26, 2025CASTING NEWS:
Ayanda Bandla-Ngubane in new international film#etvSmokeAndMirrors lead actress stars in London based actor – director Tom Datnow’s new film called “Poacher’s Moon”. #KgopoloReports pic.twitter.com/GUuy1ejLsh
— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) January 27, 2025
