The South African film industry has once again been internationally recognized with Oscar's nomination for Last Ranger. This is a fascinating short film that will surprise the reality of rhino poaching. As the only African film on the 2025 Academy Award nominee list, The Last Ranger not only gives critical attention to one of the continent's most urgent conservation crises, but also highlights the strength of the South African film industry and its rich creative talent.
This 28-minute film was fully filmed at a location in the Eastern Cape Game Reserve and stands out for its authenticity, raw emotion and cultural depth. Talked in Isixhosa, the film offers an unusually powerful perspective on the frontline battle against poaching, told through the eyes of people who risk their lives to protect the country's wildlife. The nomination is a key achievement for South African filmmakers, once again proof that the country's storytellers can compete at the world's largest stage.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ruldx8ep_lq
A true South African story told by local talent
At the heart of the final Ranger is a deep story of South Africa. It speaks to the country's rich biodiversity, the urgent need for conservation, and the socioeconomic complexities intertwined with the illegal wildlife trade. Unlike many previous wildlife documentaries that take a more deleted or observant attitude, the film places the audience directly in the struggle of life or death of the Ranger, providing a raw, emotional and immersive experience.
The film's choice to be told fully in Isixhosa is a crucial feature, adding the cultural and linguistic credibility that is often lacking in internationally produced African stories. Instead of presenting conservation issues through the outsider lens, Last Ranger allows the character (the Ranger himself) to control his story. This not only strengthens the emotional impact of the film, but also highlights the importance of South African talent in shaping stories that resonate both locally and globally.
The production team, composed primarily of local South African filmmakers, cinematographers and sound designers, brings technical expertise and storytelling skills that have acquired a country recognised in the global cinema. By showing off the ability to produce South Africa's world-class films, The Last Ranger positions the country as a global leader in both filmmaking and wildlife storytelling.
Groundbreaking achievements for South African filmmaking
The Oscar nomination for 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, impressive cinematography and compelling narratives prove that South African films can stand with the best in the world. The nomination is not merely a victory for filmmakers, but a testament to the strength and potential of South Africa's creative economy.
From a production perspective, filming at Game Reserve has had unique challenges and opportunities. Unlike a controlled studio environment, 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 ingrained with urgency that reflects the high stakes nature of the actual Ranger mission.
One of the outstanding elements of the production was its commitment to the film's credibility. Actors, who were experienced firsthand with the reality of poaching, hindered the level of raw emotion in their performances, which were impossible to replicate in traditional casting. This deep connection to this material ensures that the Last Ranger is not just another conservative documentary, but a story that carries the weight of living experience.
Beyond artistic achievements, the final Ranger nomination has heightened South Africa's global reputation as a hub of filmmaking talent. South African directors, screenwriters, and production crews have long been recognized for their ability to tell engaging and socially relevant stories, such as Tsotsi (2005) and my TacoPass Teacher (2021). Now, The Last Ranger continues its legacy, proving that South African talent can compete at Hollywood's biggest stage.
The film's success is likely to have a far-reaching impact on the South African film industry. Currently, the focus is on the country's ability to attract global attention and produce internationally acclaimed content, allowing the industry to increase investment, collaborate with international studios, and increase opportunities for South African filmmakers to introduce their work to global audiences.
The final ranger stands as a beacon of South African storytelling, talent and technical excellence. Whether or not they bring home an Oscar, the film already achieves something much bigger. South African filmmaking is at the heart of global conversation, proving that national narratives, talent and perspectives are more relevant than ever at the global stage.
With its fascinating story, stunning visuals and deep South African voice, the final Ranger is more than just a candidate. This is a symbol of a country where creative talent is ready to adopt the world.
Check out the trailer here
