This is my all-time favourite film, and has been ever since I first saw it back in, I guess, 1990 or so.
From the first note of the music, I knew it was going to be special. I *adore* the soundtrack (music is a big part of films for me, and put me on the path to becoming a musician), the cinematography, the amazing countryside.
It's not particularly complicated in the script department, and actually is quite light on dialog, but it's charming, engaging and beautiful.
It's never going to happen, but I would really love a decent DVD release of this in stereo...
Update: Feb 2012.The New Zealand Film Commission have been buying up the rights to some NZ films for DVD release, and Starlight Hotel is one of them. It appears the DVD is now available from: http://www.screenline.co.nz/catalogue/index.php? main_page=product_info&cPath=1_20&products_id=378
Pal Region 4 release for now. Mine is ordered, and I'll update the review when it arrives.
So if you want to settle into a charming, delightful, innocent little coming of age tale, I can't recommend Starlight Hotel enough. My all-time favourite film. Ever.
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