Fans see ‘Bright Lights’ as final glimpse into Debbie Reynolds, Carrie Fisher’s lives

A documentary at this year’s Palm Springs International Film Festival is shining a light on the relationship between Carrie Fisher and her mother, Debbie Reynolds. The film “Bright Lights” was screened at the Annenberg Theater in Palm Springs Wednesday night, drawing more than 300 fans.

“It was just so sad. It’s going to be a really poignant evening to watch this,” Nick Bonnell said.

“It’s more meaningful even now and that’s such a tragedy to sort of hear but even more arrangeable to come and pay respects to them too,” Ray Hatfield said.

Co-director Fisher Stevens says the idea for the documentary came when Fisher wanted to capture her mother’s brilliance as well as the bond they shared. Essentially, Stevens said, the movie is about a bond that’s best described as a love story between mother and daughter.

“It took time. They had their ups and downs. We captured them at a beautiful moment in their lives,” Stevens said.

Stevens said when he met with the mother-daughter duo six weeks ago, Reynolds was ill but both were in good spirits. News of their death came as a shock to Stevens who said it was an honor to capture the last moments of their lives.

For a look at upcoming screenings, visit the Palm Springs International Film Festival website.