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,” said Executive Producer, Anele Mdoda. “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. 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.”
Among the esteemed guests in attendance was the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and The
Environment, Narend Singh, who praised the film for its powerful storytelling and emphasis on
conservation.
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).
The film, shot by Six Feet Films during the pandemic as part of the anthology series When The World
Stopped by U.S. producers Darwin Shaw, Will Hawkes, and David S. Lee. With its powerful story of rhino
poaching and the relentless commitment of South Africa’s rangers, the film further showcases Lebo M's
remarkable influence and achievements in the global entertainment industry.
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.
