A Wish from the Moon

Sometimes holding on to the ones we lost enables us to feel better. It makes reliving memories and moments as real as it can be with the same feeling as it was. However, does holding on make the days any better? Life any clearer? And the near future with certainties? Will it heal wounds of the heart? Or will it cause more heartbreaks than the grief it is already mending? The emotions are high in this short film we are going to take focus today, as it deals with the grief of a young man who lost his main confidant and his best friend. A brother lost and couldn’t find the will to begin after the loss of his sister, in the lovely drama “A Wish From The Moon” by Noel José Padilla Albor Paganotti.

A Wish From The Moon is the kind of film that gives significant importance to the feeling of a person, particularly grief. It made me understand that we all have different ways to process our emotions, different ways to cope with death, and different ways and timeframes to mend what has been broken within us. And in this story, director/writer Noel José Padilla Albor Paganotti showcases Leon’s journey to healing, starting a new chapter, and letting go of the presence of his deceased sister Victoria. The story began with a very lost Leon, who is struggling to put his life together. He finds the presence of his deceased sister comforting. He can talk to her about anything. She gives him the advice that he needs and the courage to step up to situations he will not do on his own. And one day, Victoria played a cute little trick on Leon. She initiated an act that will make Leon talk to the girl he likes. Is this Victoria’s way of directing his brother to the reality of the life he deserves? Or will Leon refuse to move forward and continue to live in the world that has his sister in it? Either one of the choices is heartbreaking for Leon, but one thing is for sure, the choice he makes will set one of them free towards moving forward.

A Wish From The Moon gave me a different approach to the family drama genre. I don’t often see the connection and love between siblings highlighted in other films, that is why I am awed by this film. I like the way  Director Noel José Padilla Albor Paganotti steps out from the usual family drama and lets out this story between siblings, which is something that families should see. The story is also very helpful to those going through the same phase as Leon. It helps one understand and accept the phase of losing someone dear to your heart. Other than that, Colton Orr and Stacy Wilk were lovely in this film. I felt the natural bond between the two of them, and they displayed sincere emotions that made me feel their connection with the character they portray. Lastly, I am applauding Noel José Padilla Albor Paganotti’s effort in showcasing this film. I have seen one of his creations before, and screening this short film proved his versatility and keen perspective in telling a story kindled by true emotions. I am sure that I’ll be seeing more from this very talented student director from Utah, and I can’t wait to see it here again at the festival!