South African audiences will soon get their first look at Poacher’s Moon, an independently produced neo-Western crime drama that is set to make its local premiere at the 47th Durban International Film Festival (DIFF) on 25 July 2026. Set against the vast landscapes of the Northern Cape, the film explores the intersections of friendship, identity, poverty and rhino poaching through the lives of two childhood friends whose futures become deeply intertwined.
A Story Rooted in South Africa
Although Poacher’s Moon was developed and executive produced by UK-based filmmaker Tom Datnow and producer Kathryn Datnow through their production company DoDatnowFilms, the film is deeply connected to South Africa. Datnow, who grew up between South Africa and London, drew from his own experiences of navigating two cultures and identities, making the film partly autobiographical.
Filmed primarily in and around Kimberley in the Northern Cape, the 105-minute feature presents a distinctly South African story while bringing together an international production team. The film is presented in English, Afrikaans, Southern Sotho and isiZulu, reflecting the country’s multilingual identity.
A Neo-Western With Social Commentary
Rather than following the conventions of a traditional crime drama, Poacher’s Moon uses the neo-Western genre to examine complex social issues. At its core, the film tells the story of two childhood friends whose lives diverge as they confront poverty, trauma and the realities of rhino poaching.
By placing these issues within an intimate, character-driven narrative, the film explores how circumstance, loss and survival shape the choices people make. Themes of resilience, hope and identity sit alongside environmental concerns, creating a story that is as emotionally grounded as it is socially relevant.
An International Cast and Collaborative Production
The film stars British actor Tom Datnow as James Hollander opposite South African actor Kwenzo Ngcobo (The Wife) as Michael “Moremi” Zungu. They are joined by an ensemble cast including Stelio Savante, Andre Jacobs, Muzi Mthabela, Ayanda Bandla-Ngubane, Ntandoyethu Zondi, Thami Mngqolo, Kathryn Datnow, Leroy Gopal, Martez Saporta-Rothuysen, Thomas Janisch and Sabelo Radebe.
Production received support from the British High Commission as well as several Northern Cape government departments and agencies. Around 70% of the production crew was sourced from the Northern Cape, with additional crew members from Gauteng, the United Kingdom and the United States, creating a production that combines international collaboration with a strong local foundation.
A Milestone Debut at DIFF
Poacher’s Moon also marks Tom Datnow’s feature directorial debut, adding another milestone to this year’s Durban International Film Festival programme.
As one of Africa’s longest-running and most respected film festivals, DIFF continues to provide a platform for independent filmmakers and stories that engage with pressing social and cultural issues. The inclusion of Poacher’s Moon highlights the festival’s ongoing commitment to showcasing diverse voices and ambitious storytelling from South Africa and beyond.
With its striking Northern Cape setting, multilingual narrative and exploration of themes that remain deeply relevant both locally and globally, Poacher’s Moon is shaping up to be one of this year’s notable South African premieres.
