South Africa’s film industry has once again gained international recognition with the Oscar nomination of Last Ranger, a gripping short film that takes an unflinching look at the realities of rhino poaching. As the only African film on the 2025 Academy Award shortlist, Last Ranger not only brings critical attention to one of the continent’s most urgent conservation crises but also highlights the strength of South Africa’s film industry and its wealth of creative talent.
This 28-minute film, shot entirely on location in a game reserve in the Eastern Cape, stands out for its authenticity, raw emotion, and cultural depth. Told in isiXhosa, the film offers a rare and powerful perspective on the frontline battle against poaching, told through the eyes of those who risk their lives to protect the country’s wildlife. The nomination marks a significant achievement for South African filmmakers, proving once again that the nation’s storytellers can compete on the world’s biggest stage.
An Authentic South African Story Told by Local Talent
At the heart of Last Ranger is a deeply South African narrative—one that speaks to the country’s rich biodiversity, the urgent need for conservation, and the socio-economic complexities that intertwine with the illegal wildlife trade. Unlike many previous wildlife documentaries that take a more removed or observational stance, this film places its audience directly in the life-or-death struggles of rangers, offering a raw, emotional, and immersive experience.
The film’s choice to be told entirely in isiXhosa is a defining feature, adding cultural and linguistic authenticity that is often missing in internationally produced African stories. Instead of presenting a conservation issue through an outsider’s lens, Last Ranger allows its characters—the rangers themselves—to take control of their own narrative. This not only strengthens the film’s emotional impact but also highlights the importance of South African talent in shaping stories that resonate both locally and globally.
The production team, made up primarily of local South African filmmakers, cinematographers, and sound designers, brings a level of technical expertise and storytelling prowess that has earned the country growing recognition in global film circles. By showcasing South Africa’s ability to produce world-class cinema, Last Ranger positions the country as a global leader in both filmmaking and wildlife storytelling.
A Landmark Achievement for South African Filmmaking
The Oscar nomination of Last Ranger is a career-defining moment for its creators and a massive milestone for the South African film industry. The film’s production values, striking cinematography, and compelling narrative prove that South African cinema can stand alongside the best in the world. The nomination is not just a win for the filmmakers but a testament to the strength and potential of South Africa’s creative economy.
From a production standpoint, filming in a game reserve came with unique challenges and opportunities. Unlike controlled studio environments, the filmmakers had to adapt to unpredictable wildlife movements, natural lighting conditions, and the inherent dangers of shooting in the wilderness. The intense realism captured on screen is a direct result of these challenges—every frame is imbued with an urgency that mirrors the high-stakes nature of real-life ranger operations.
One of the standout elements of the production was the film’s commitment to authenticity. The actors—many of whom had firsthand experience with the realities of poaching—brought a level of raw emotion to their performances that would have been impossible to replicate with traditional casting. This deep connection to the material ensures that Last Ranger is not just another conservation documentary but a story that carries the weight of lived experiences.
Beyond its artistic achievements, the nomination of Last Ranger also elevates South Africa’s global reputation as a hub for filmmaking talent. South African directors, screenwriters, and production crews have long been recognized for their ability to tell compelling, socially relevant stories—films like Tsotsi (2005) and My Octopus Teacher (2021) have previously won Academy Awards. Now, Last Ranger continues that legacy, proving that South African talent can compete on Hollywood’s biggest stage.
The film’s success is likely to have far-reaching effects on South Africa’s film industry. With global attention now focused on the country’s ability to produce high-quality, internationally acclaimed content, the industry may see increased investment, more co-productions with international studios, and greater opportunities for South African filmmakers to showcase their work to a global audience.
Last Ranger stands as a beacon of South African storytelling, talent, and technical excellence. Whether or not it takes home the Oscar, the film has already achieved something far greater—it has put South African filmmaking at the center of a global conversation, proving that the country’s stories, talent, and perspectives are more relevant than ever on the world stage.
With its gripping narrative, stunning visuals, and deeply South African voice, Last Ranger is more than just a nominee—it is a symbol of a country whose creative talent is ready to take on the world.
