Boulder is the perfect setting for the Moondance International Film Festival because the festival’s artsy, natural vibe matches the unique character of the city. And while the Denver region isn’t near any coastline, the Moondance mermaid symbol and pervasive sea theme fit with the festival’s liberating atmosphere.
Moondance isn’t here to make money or become an A-list breeding ground. It was established to promote peace and honor those who excel in conceptualization and video production on the small screen. There’s something admirable about that.
I was lucky enough to attend the festival in 2009 while a student at the University of Colorado. Naturally, the selection of films was strong but the Feature Narrative Film Like Dandelion Dust really took me. I wasn’t surprised to see it win the Gaia Award (to encourage and inspire contemplative, meditative, spiritual and inspirational films and scripts) because it was truly gripping. Here’s the description that drew me in—
A boy’s biological father has just been released from prison and discovered a loophole in the adoption papers and now lays claim to his son. When a judge upholds the biological father’s claim and Molly and Jack learn they must give Joey over to this brutal man they devise a plan. How far would you go to protect your family?
The film seems fairly simple but I was absolutely awed and heartbroken in that wonderful way that a film can break your heart and make you love every minute. Of course, I was ultimately uplifted by the film—not a surprise given the Moondance accolades.
Anyone in the Boulder area this weekend should attend Moondance. The three days feature quality film screenings as well as workshops and networking events—proving Moondance’s commitment to both art and community. The energy of the event is infectious; I felt absolutely recharged afterward.
Make a commitment to change and open your mind to the Moondance International Film Festival—you won’t regret it!