’’Why are moths so attracted to light?’’ - this is just one of the questions Matthew Somerville’s short film tries to find an answer to. While strolling the streets of London late in the night , an old man - who happens to be the protagonist and also the narrator - aspires to understand what could be the connection between moths, light and humanity in general.

​

Throughout the film, we get to learn a lot about moths' current situation in the urban areas. These creatures only fly during nighttime and nowadays the city lights become more and more pollutant for the night sky, and even for moths. They get dizzy when they use artificial light as guidance, and they spin around out of confusion, rather than desire.

​

This short film may not be your typical documentary, as it uses a more artistic approach to the theme. However, you will surely enjoy the way the cinematography set tends to impress, from camera movement to DOP light choice. The mixture between light and shadow and the transitions from a sequence to another gives the film a dreamy effect. The pace of the film is slowed down by the editing and, together with the low-key lighting, manages to enhance the experimental genre. The whole movie has a serene atmosphere and takes on a deeper meaning, conferring this piece of filmmaking the style of a visual poem. The rhythmic background score supports the plot and conveys a melancholic mood, connecting the scenes in a masterful way.

​

Most probably, we have never thought how the lives of these small living creatures has changed over the years, which made this short film quite interesting to watch. Furthermore, Matthew Somerville managed to create an intense and complex experience, using a remarkable variety of filmmaking techniques. His film is challenging and expressive, turning the ordinary into a journey that crosses the boundaries of ephemeral lives of the moths and the limits of understanding the message behind this short film.