'It's all about the story': Award-winning SA short film 'The Last Ranger' tells the harrowing story of rhino poaching.
Anticipation continues to rise as the 97th Academy Awards nominations are announced. last rangerwas shortlisted for the prestigious Oscar nomination.
As the global fight for wildlife conservation continues, this film reflects the challenges facing rangers and serves as a hopeful call to action.
last ranger ” is one of 15 films vying for a 2025 Oscar nomination in the Best Live-Action Short Film category, marking a historic moment for the local film industry.
The 2025 Oscars ceremony will be hosted by Conan O'Brien and will be held on March 2nd.
'The Last Ranger': Award-winning film focused on rhino poaching
This multiple award-winning short is the second film in the anthology. when the world stopped.
“I'm very proud that the isiXhosa film about rhino poaching has been nominated for an Oscar. This film is unique and deserves every effort,” enthuses director Cindy Lee. spoke.
But she added: “All awards are great, but this is the most important message if we want to save rhinos from the horrors of poaching.”
“Success is driven by stories, and stories matter. We have to keep talking about rhinos,” Lee urged.
WATCH: Behind the Scenes of 'The Last Ranger'
Also read: Police trap one of SA's most wanted rhino poaching suspects
In addition to its Oscar recognition, the film had a strong presence at international film festivals, winning numerous accolades including the Green Fire Award at the American Conservation Film Festival (ACFF) and Best Short Narrative Award at the San Diego International Film Festival. and has won awards. Film festival.
The harsh reality of rhino poaching in the Southeast
last ranger The film depicts the tragic reality of rhino poaching in South Africa and the desperate conservation efforts to save the animals.
The story follows young Rita (Lyavona Mrokoza) who is taken on a fascinating journey through a hunting reserve by the last remaining ranger, Kuselwa (Avmir Konkwo).
Their adventure takes a tragic and unexpected turn when they are ambushed by poachers. A fierce battle to protect the rhino begins, and a devastating secret is eventually revealed.
Related article: Animals fight back: Injured buffalo kills poacher in Kruger National Park
Watch: 'The Last Ranger' Trailer
- last ranger Produced by Six Feet Films and supported by Executive Producer Anele Mdoda of Rose and Oaks Media.
Latest rhino poaching statistics
Minister for the Environment, Forestry and Fisheries Barbara Creasy released rhino poaching statistics for 2023 on 27 February this year.
The minister said that during the first six months of 2023, the department worked hard in the fight against rhino poaching in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Hawks and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
She said their joint efforts resulted in the conviction of 31 criminals.
In 2023, a total of 499 rhinos were poached across South Africa. 406 people were killed on state land and 93 on private parks, reserves and farms. This was an increase of 51 rhinos compared to the number of 448 rhinos poached in 2022.
- Members of the public can report suspicious activity involving wildlife to the department's environmental crime hotline on 0800 205 005 or SAPS 10111.
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