Anele Mdoda: We lost the Oscar but won hearts!

ANELE Mdoda and her team made Mzansi proud by being among the Oscar-nominated stars.

Although they didn’t win the Best Live-Action category at the 97th Academy Awards held at the Dolby Theatre in Ovation Hollywood, Los Angeles, on Monday morning, 3 March, their accomplishments remain noteworthy.

The TV personality and producer’s short film Last Ranger was nominated, and Anele and her team attended the event.

In a press release, they described the film’s journey as nothing short of extraordinary.

Co-produced by Anele and her company, Rose & Oaks Media, the film has sparked crucial conversations about issues such as rhino poaching and highlighted the remarkable talent within South Africa’s film industry.

Anele reflected on the nomination with a deep sense of pride.

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“The Last Ranger may have lost out on the Oscar, but I think that as a country, as a continent, and as an industry focused on conservation, we’ve absolutely won. The awareness for rhino poaching is at an all-time high, which is ultimately wildlife — the only thing that we have over the rest of the world.”

She said that she considers them winners.

“To stand on an international stage and be considered among the best for such a wonderful piece of work, written by David Lee and directed by Cindy Lee, and brilliantly acted out by Avumile Qongqo and Liyabona Mroqoza, I think it’s a win. The New York Times said they wanted us to win, Deadline called us to win, and The Hollywood Reporter also said it’s us. So, we may have lost, but I think we’ve won the film industry’s hearts,” Anele said.

Bongumusa Makhathini, CEO of Primedia Studios, shared Anele’s sentiments.

“The impact of Last Ranger is undeniable. This film has opened up a dialogue about crucial conservation issues and has highlighted the incredible talent within our industry. We are immensely proud of Anele and her team for their dedication and passion. Their work has resonated not only in South Africa but also on an international stage, and this recognition is a testament to the quality of storytelling that continues to emerge from our country,” he said.