The highly acclaimed South African short film, The Last Ranger, captivated audiences during a special screening at Montecasino on Wednesday, 12 February 2025. Starring Avumile Qongqo and Liyabona Mroqoza and directed by Cindy Lee, the film is nominated for Best Live Action Short Film at the upcoming 97th Academy Awards.
The special screening saw industry leaders, media personalities, influencers, and families of the cast come to support the film. Following the screening, an engaging Q&A session took place with the film’s executive producers Anele Mdoda and Lebo M, alongside the lead actors Avumile Qongqo (Khuselwa) and Liyabona Mroqoza (Litha), offering insights into the film’s themes and production.
“The world is still turning its gaze toward South Africa because we hold something truly special – the Big Five,If we allow the destruction of what makes us unique, like the very animals that set us apart on the world stage, we risk losing more than just a natural treasure.”-Anele Mdoda
She continued by saying,
“We lose the key to a sustainable future, where tourism and conservation work hand in hand to uplift our communities and secure a brighter future for our country.”
Lebo M, the celebrated executive producer behind the global hit Mufasa: The Lion King, which takes center stage in The Last Ranger as executive producer alongside Anele Mdoda (Rose & Oaks Media) and Adam Thal (The Star Film Company).
With the Oscars set to take place on 2nd March 2025, in Los Angeles, The Last Ranger continues to shine a global spotlight on South Africa’s conservation efforts and the courage of female rangers protecting the country’s endangered wildlife.
