Directorial debut for filmmakers Mia Weinberger and Thomas van Kalken continues with prestigious award and Portland screening

WATERVILLE, ME — In a stunning and emotional turn, A Moment in the Sun—a documentary that follows the small town of Houlton, Maine, as it becomes a pivotal site for the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse—has been awarded Best Feature Film at the 28th Annual Maine International Film Festival (MIFF), one of the most prestigious film festivals in New England.

This incredible recognition marks a significant milestone for first-time directors Mia Weinberger and Thomas van Kalken. The documentary, which had its world premiere at MIFF on July 19, tells the powerful, human story of Houlton’s preparation for the rare and awe-inspiring eclipse. Through the eyes of local residents, the film shows how a small town embraced the world stage in ways both profound and personal.

“To be honored with Best Feature at such a revered festival is beyond words,” says Mia Weinberger, visibly moved by the recognition. “This project has been a labor of love for us, and to see it acknowledged at MIFF, where so many amazing films have premiered, is truly humbling. We are so proud of the story we’ve told, and it feels so special to share it with a broader audience.”

“Winning Best Feature at MIFF is an extraordinary honor, not just for us as filmmakers, but for the entire town of Houlton,” said Thomas van Kalken, reflecting on the achievement. “It’s a celebration of their spirit, the pride they took in welcoming eclipse chasers from all over the world, and the sense of community that runs so deep there. This film was born from those connections, and to have it recognized like this is incredibly gratifying.”

A Moment in the Sun marks the filmmakers’ first collaboration as co-directors, and their unique partnership has proven to be a perfect match. Though they come from different backgrounds in film and media, their shared vision of capturing the emotional core of this town’s story has resulted in a film that resonates with audiences on a deeply human level.

This recognition is a testament to the filmmakers’ ability to capture something more than just the extraordinary astronomical event. It’s a film about community, resilience, and the bonds that unite us in moments of shared wonder.

The film now heads to Portland, where it will have its Portland premiere at the Maine Outdoor Film Festival (MOFF) on July 25 at the Osher Hall at Maine College of Art & Design. It will continue to inspire audiences across the country as they apply for entry into festivals and screenings throughout the year.

The filmmakers are also excited to bring the film home to Houlton, where it will have its official hometown premiere at the Temple Theatre starting September 5, with screenings running throughout the week.

ABOUT THE FILM
Title: A Moment In The Sun
Directors: Mia Weinberger & Thomas van Kalken
Genre: Documentary
Country: USA / Australia
Runtime: 1:16:58
Year: 2025
Website & Social: amomentinthesunmovie.com | @amomentinthesun