The Star (1996)

A tender British short film about grief, wonder, and the magic a falling star brings to one boy's garden.

The Star - Movie Information

  • Release Year: 1996
  • Directed by: David Moore
  • Type: Movie
  • Genres: Drama, Comedy
  • Runtime: 19m
  • Original Language: English
  • Release Date (Theatrical): August 18, 1996 (United Kingdom)
  • Production Companies: BBC Scotland, Scottish Arts Council Lottery Fund, The Scottish Film Production Fund
  • Production Countries: United Kingdom

The Star - Plot

A young boy who has recently lost his mother finds new meaning when a shooting star lands in his garden.

Where to Watch The Star

Looking for where to watch The Star?

The Star - Cast & Crew

Director(s)

  • David Moore

Main Cast

  • Gordon McCorkell
  • Alison Peebles
  • Stewart Preston
  • David Bradley
  • Philip McKee
  • Billy McElhaney
  • Graeme Hill
  • Allan Sharpe
  • Simon Gallagher
  • Sandy Neilson

Writers

  • John Milarky
  • Alasdair Gray

Producers

  • Stephen Marsh
  • Ildikó Kemény

The Star - FAQs

What is The Star (1996) about?

The Star follows a young boy coping with the loss of his mother who discovers unexpected wonder and comfort when a shooting star falls into his garden. The film uses this magical event as a gentle metaphor for grief, hope, and the healing power of imagination in childhood.

How long is The Star (1996)?

The Star runs for just 19 minutes, making it a short film. Despite its brief runtime, it delivers an emotionally resonant story about loss and wonder that leaves a lasting impression.

Who directed The Star (1996)?

The Star was directed by David Moore, a British filmmaker. The film was produced with support from BBC Scotland, the Scottish Arts Council Lottery Fund, and The Scottish Film Production Fund, reflecting its roots in Scottish cinema.

Who are the main actors in The Star?

The cast includes Gordon McCorkell, Alison Peebles, Stewart Preston, David Bradley, Philip McKee, Billy McElhaney, Graeme Hill, Allan Sharpe, Simon Gallagher, and Sandy Neilson. The ensemble brings warmth and authenticity to this intimate Scottish short film.

Where can you watch The Star (1996)?

You can check current streaming and viewing options for The Star on JustWatch, which tracks availability across platforms in your region. Availability may vary depending on your location and the services you subscribe to.

Who wrote the screenplay for The Star?

The Star was written by John Milarky and Alasdair Gray. Alasdair Gray is a celebrated Scottish author and artist, best known for his landmark novel Lanark, lending the film a distinctive literary pedigree.

Is The Star a British short film?

Yes, The Star is a British short film produced in the United Kingdom. It was made with backing from BBC Scotland and Scottish funding bodies, and it premiered in the United Kingdom on August 18, 1996, firmly placing it within the tradition of Scottish short filmmaking.

What are some movies similar to The Star?

If The Star resonates with you, you might enjoy Juniper (2021), Almost Friends (2017), Fat Kid Rules the World (2012), Cyrus (2010), or Somewhere in Queens (2023). These films share themes of personal growth, family, and emotional resilience that echo The Star's gentle spirit.

More About The Star

Explore further details about The Star on these trusted resources.

Help Us Keep Our Content Accurate.

Report an Error