Archive notice: This article was originally published on August 20, 2008. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
The evening of August 16 had plenty to offer in terms of atmosphere. The festival program itself—with live music, the audience’s favorite films, a red carpet, and numerous directors and actors in attendance—was crowned by nature. On this mild summer night, the audience could comfortably watch the partial lunar eclipse from their seats because it took place directly above the screen. “A gift from heaven that is guaranteed to make the evening unforgettable,” festival director Gudrun Winter said.
Even without this unexpected crowning touch from Mother Nature, the festival can look back on a successful season. Over the previous four weeks, Shorts at Moonlight toured the region and recorded increased attendance everywhere. Whether on the terrace of Höchst Castle, in the old spa gardens in Bad Soden, or at the old moated castle in Hofheim, the weather was kind to the festival, and the number of fans who did not want to miss any of the changing short-film programs rose again this year.
Well over 5,000 visitors enjoyed more than 100, predominantly German short films selected by the association’s members. The awards ceremony itself set a new record, with 700 visitors that evening. This makes Shorts at Moonlight one of Germany’s most popular short-film festivals. The concept of presenting high-quality films at the region’s most beautiful venues has therefore proved successful. When assembling each program, which consists of about eight short films, the organizers make sure it is varied and that every evening ends with a comedy—equivalent to the happy ending of a feature film. The concept has clearly proved its worth and will be retained.
The new offer for kindergarten and schoolchildren—to come not only to watch films but also to make one themselves—was also enthusiastically received. “So far, we have tested this opportunity in Höchst and Hofheim. The children were delighted, and we were delighted with the results too. With our support, the children made almost 100 films. They invented their own stories and brought them to life with pictures they had painted themselves. It was quite exhausting for our team, but it also gave us some moments of happiness. The children were very proud. Perhaps we can offer the project in Mainz next year as well,” the festival director said.
On this occasion, the Shorts at Moonlight association would like to point out that people can participate in all of its activities. Anyone wishing to become a member can complete the form on the website http://www.shortsatmoonlight.de.
Further Links:
- Further information
