LunaFest shines light on female directors

Short films for, about and by women. That’s what LunaFest is all about.

“It’s 90 minutes, nine short films, that address all sorts of women’s issues and it’s hosted by Soroptimist International,” said co-chair Samantha Dewing.

The annual festival striking a cord with many attendees who said ‘time’s up.’

“I’ve been thinking this is important for a long, long, time and some of us are just really happy that time is finally up. And some of us have been fighting battles for a long, long time,” said Eileen Stern from Palm Springs.

The film festival travels around the country celebrating, showcasing and championing women in film. And women in attendance said that’s something they can get behind.

“I came here today because I’m hungry for women’s stories. Stories about women. Stories told by women. There’s so little of that and I think about my life and its mostly stories told by men about men,” said Ellen Lockert from Palm Springs.

Not only does the festival showcase the talents of female filmmakers it benefits local female organizations.

“I think this festival gives women a voice from all over the world and we get to come and hear it today. And being part of LunaFest we’re supporting the Ophelia Project which supports young women in our community,” said Dee Dee Wilson Barton, one of the sponsors of the event.

Many agree with the ‘Me Too’ and ‘Time’s Up’ movements gaining momentum, they hope to see change.

“We all need to support each other if we’re ever going to achieve the goals we want to achieve. Which is fairness, equal pay and freedom from harassment,” Lockert said.

Attendees said they’re looking forward to more events like this where women’s voices can be heard.