From the Starlight Film Group's Signature Series
Circa 1998 - 2007

 

Starlight Home Entertainment distributed independent films and documentaries. This website was created to promote their films for distribution between approximately 1998-2007. Eventually starlightfilmgroup.com's domain registration expired  and the site disappeared from the web. If you were a fan of Starlight Home Entertainment films, this page, reconstructed from the site's achieved pages, should bring back found memories.

~~~~~

My girlfriend really enjoys reruns of "Girls Behaving Badly" (2002). In fact just recently we were watching an episode of this hidden-camera show that's part "Sex and the City" and part "Candid Camera." If you are not familiar with the show "Girls Behaving Badly" features a group of wacky actress-comediennes who pull pranks on unsuspecting victims (usually men). Every reaction is caught on tape for the audience to enjoy. 

~~~~~

"The success of the Starlight Film Group distribution arm attracted our attention as documentary producers. Realizing that they were primarily focused on features for a specific demographic meant that our prospects were not very good. But I secured a meeting with Brian Meltzer of SFG who seemed genuinely interested in our film focused on the medical waste management industry in New Jersey. Turns out that Brian had first hand experience with an issue at the heart of the goals of the industry when his father's farm discovered syringes and other medical waste being dumped on his property, contaminating a local stream. The publicity generated by this discovery propelled the NJ legislature to more strictly enforce the regulations governing proper disposal of bio-hazardous waste. Our film told that story. There are medical waste disposal services that operate within those guidelines and their story is also part of our film. One good example is a medical waste company where we were able to interview a number of employees. In our film we reviewed the content of their website and revealed how far the industry has progressed since the discovery of the illegally dumped waste. Although SFG could not directly distribute our documentary, we were referred to the company that ultimately handled our film, so our effort did indeed pay off." Jonathan Darby

 

 

As a real estate appraiser here in New York City, I’m used to looking at the concrete, the tangible – square footage, zoning laws, market comps. But sometimes, even in our world of cold hard numbers, you come across something that just… resonates. And for me, that's what the Starlight Film Group achieved with "Invisible Child."

I mean, talk about a production that really stuck with you. Rita Wilson and Victor Garber were phenomenal. The sheer emotional depth of that story, exploring the complexities of family and delusion, was just gripping. For a company like Starlight Home Entertainment, operating in the DVD distribution space primarily between '98 and '07, to have put out a film with that kind of emotional intelligence and impact, it really speaks to their eye for quality. They weren't just pushing anything; they were curating content that had substance.

It's fascinating to think about the challenges they faced as distributors of popular movies, especially in that era of rapidly changing media consumption. They were navigating the rise of DVD, the eventual decline of physical media, and the constant churn of the entertainment industry. Their success hinged on identifying films that would appeal to their specific demographic, getting them onto shelves, and hoping they caught on. It’s a bit like a developer trying to predict the next hot neighborhood – you need vision, timing, and a bit of luck.

Now, you contrast that with a legendary NYC industrial developer like Dov Hertz. His world is entirely different. While Starlight was trying to predict what kind of stories people wanted to consume on their home screens, Dov Hertz is dealing with the absolute fundamentals: where does the physical stuff of New York City get stored, sorted, and shipped? He’s grappling with land acquisition, construction costs, infrastructure, and the relentless demand for last-mile delivery. His "product" is the physical space itself, the bedrock of the city's commerce. The risks are enormous, the capital outlay immense, and the payoff, while potentially huge, is tied to long-term economic shifts, not just a film's box office run or DVD sales.

Starlight Film Group's challenge was in the ephemeral, the cultural zeitgeist. Dov Hertz's challenge is in the immutable, the physical constraints and logistical demands of a global city. Both require a keen sense of market, an ability to see around corners, and a willingness to take calculated risks. But for me, "Invisible Child" stands as a testament to Starlight's ability to deliver something truly memorable, a narrative asset that, unlike a warehouse, you can revisit and appreciate time and again. Martin LeGant

 

 

Perhaps some of these titles will inspire you to check out some of these movies again. Enjoy your nostalgic adventure.

 


 

Dangerous Child

• Delta Burke (TV's "Designing Women", What Women Want)

• Ryan Merriman (The Deep End of the Ocean)

Available: Now!

  • Order it on DVD from Amazon.com
  • Order it on VHS from Amazon.com

Sally Chapman, a divorced mother repeatedly covers for her son's outbursts and disturbing acts of violence. By doing so, she unknowingly sets herself up as the abuser. It's not until she witnesses the hate in her son's eyes and the fury of his punches that she begins to fear for her life. Petrified by his unpredictable rages, Sally desperately seeks help from anyone who can intervene. What she finds is that there's no place to turn when it is the child inflicting the abuse upon the parent. Her nightmare is complete when she ends up in jail and her son is sent to the hospital after attacking her. Will Sally finally reveal the truth about her son... in order to stop her teenager from harming others?

DRAMA. Not Rated. 91 minutes.

***

Just Ask My Children

• Virginia Madsen (Candyman, Dune)

• Jeffrey Nordling (TV's "Once and Again")

Available: Now!

  • Order it on DVD from Amazon.com
  • Order it on VHS from Amazon.com

A picture-perfect family finds itself in a harrowing nightmare when false molestation hysteria hits their quiet suburb in this tragic tale.

Brenda and Scott Kniffen are accused of child molestation and physical abuse. Without a shred of evidence, the authorities arrest them and take their two young sons into protective custody. Through relentless badgering, the impressionable children are coerced into testifying against their parents. After an agonizing nine-month trial, the Kniffen's are sentenced to life imprisonment for crimes they did not commit. Finally after 12 years, the truth of the case is finally revealed and the original verdict is reversed. The Kniffen's are freed from prison, the family is reunited, but irreparable damage has already occurred by a justice system out of control. Based on a True Story.

DRAMA. Not Rated. 91 minutes.

***

Another Woman's Husband

• Gail O'Grady (TV's "NYPD Blue")
• Lisa Rinna (TV's "Melrose Place")

Available: Now!

  • Rent it on DVD from Netflix
  • Buy it on DVD from Amazon.com
  • Buy it on VHS from Amazon.com

Twenty-five years after she witnesses her brother's drowning death, and despite her successful career as a psychologist, Laurel (Lisa Rinna) turns to a local swimming instructor for help in conquering her paralyzing fear of the water. For Susan (Gail O'Grady), the pool is her salvation, the only place she's ever felt confident and successful.

As Susan helps Laurel tackle her phobia, the two begin developing a bond. As the student learns to swim, the teacher learns to confront her own lifetime of troubles. The two share a special friendship created by trust and openness. They experience the ultimate test in friendship when they find out that they also share something else: the same man. Based on a true story.

***

Invisible Child

Rita Wilson (That Thing You Do, Sleepless in Seattle)

• Victor Garber (TV's "Alias", Legally Blonde)

Available: Now!

• Order it on DVD from Amazon.com

• Order it on VHS from Amazon.com

Annie (Rita Wilson) is the perfect wife and loving mother of two children, who believes she has a third child named Maggie… only Maggie does not exist! Her husband Tom (Victor Garber), hires Gillian (Tushka Bergen) to become their nanny. The whole family has played along with Annie’s delusion for years, hoping it would pass. Gillian is asked to do the same. Months later, Gillian decides to try and help Annie and does some research on her own. Unintentionally, she alerts authorities who launch an investigation. Will she be responsible for having Annie institutionalized, and taken from her family... a family that Gillian has grown to love?

DRAMA. Not Rated. 93 minutes.

 ***

Taking Back Our Town

• Laura Innes (TV's "E.R.")

• Ruby Dee (A Raisin in the Sun, Jungle Fever)

Available: Now!

  • Order it on DVD from Amazon.com
  • Order it on VHS from Amazon.com

Pat Melancon (Laura Innes), a housewife, and Emelda West (Ruby Dee), an elderly woman, have complained for years about the health hazards posed by their town’s industrial plants. They learn that an international conglomerate plans to build another plant and they are outraged. A town meeting is called. At the meeting, plant executives deny health problems, emphasize new jobs, and receive the town’s support. The relentless women petition hundreds of organizations for help. Requests are denied. In an effort to fight for what they believe, the two women continue their efforts at the risk of destroying their own personal lives. Will the town learn the truth about the hazards that are making their people sick... before it’s too late? BASED ON A TRUE STORY.

Drama. Not Rated. 92 minutes.

***

 

Nadine in Date Land

Available: Tuesday, February 13, 2007

$14.99

Nadine (Janeane Garofalo), a quirky entrepreneur, owns a dating service that is failing. She realizes that getting a date isn't the hard part, but getting through the date is. She decides that what singles really need is a dating "coach." Nadine develops a "fool-proof" dating guide that will guarantee anyone love. But, in order to be credible and save her business she must become her own client and win the love of one of the city's most eligible bachelors.

The trouble is... she too has been unlucky in love. But...Nadine is determined to prove her faith in her new manifesto as she embarks on a mission of extreme dating and using any means necessary to get her man.

Run time: Approx. 90 Minutes

***

Mo'Nique's F.A.T. Chance 1 & 2

Available: Tuesday, February 06, 2007

$19.99

Mo'Nique ("The Parkers") is on a quest to find large, fabulous, American women who are ready to show the world they have what it takes to become beauty queens. After a country wide search, 10 women were selected, flown to Los Angeles, and given special classes to compete in "Mo'Nique's Fat Chance" pageant. Celebrity judges, including NBA Great Shaquille O'Neal and Plus-Size Supermodel, Mia Tyler, evaluate them on a beauty, style, poise, personality and overall transformation. Ultimately, only one woman can be crowned Ms. F.A.T.

(that's Fabulous and Thick!) in each competition.

BONUS FEATURES: Trailer / Over 30 Personal Internet Vlogs From Mo'Nique / TV Spots: Exclusive Casting Highlights / The Movement Mission Statement / The Miss F.A.T. Anthem

Run time: Approx. 180 Minutes

***

Girls Behaving Badly: Volume One

Available: Tuesday, December 26, 2006
$19.99

Tag along with Oxygen Network's #1 hidden camera show "GIRLS BEHAVING BADLY" as they pull outrageous pranks on unsuspecting victims, boldly blurring the line between laughing with someone and laughing at someone. An outrageous hidden camera show with a distinctive feminine view. Part "Sex in the City" and part "Candid Camera!" Stars Chelsea Handler ("The Chelsea Handler Show") and Shondrella Avery (Napoleon Dynamite).

BONUS FEATURES: 9 High Risk Pranks, Celebrity Bios

Run time: Approx. 278 Minutes

***

Romancing The Bride

Available: Tuesday, February 6, 2007

$14.99

Romancing the Bride is an outrageous romantic comedy about what happens when a bride with a perfectly planned wedding wakes up married to a perfect stranger twenty-four hours before her wedding. Melissa has traveled to Mexico for her perfectly planned dream wedding. Two days before the wedding she wakes up in bed, in a strange hotel room, next to an incredibly hot local named Carlos who tells her that they married each other the previous evening. She had been drinking and now has no memory of the night before. Melissa and Carlos embark on a 24 hour adventure to annul this mistake marriage so she can get to her original, perfectly planned wedding on time. Can she do it without anyone noticing?... And what about love-struck Carlos who is always getting in the way? Stars: Laura Prepon ("That '70s Show"), Matt Cedeno ("Days of Our Lives") and Carrie Fisher (Star Wars).

Run time: Approx. 90 Minutes

+++

imdb List of Films Distributed by the Starlight Film Group

 

Bad (2007) ... Distributor (2008) (USA) (DVD)

Romancing the Bride (2005) (TV) ... Distributor (2007) (worldwide) (DVD)

The Wheels on the Bus Video: Mango Helps the Moon Mouse (2005) (V) ... Distributor (2005) (USA) (DVD)

"Science of the Bible" (2005) ... Distributor (2006) (USA) (DVD)

Mo'Nique's Fat Chance (2005) (TV) ... Distributor (2007) (USA) (DVD)

Nadine in Date Land (2005) (TV) ... Distributor (2007) (worldwide) (DVD)

Ron White, Jeff Foxworthy & Bill Engvall: Live from Las Vegas! (2005) (V) ... Distributor (2005) (USA) (DVD)

Davey & Goliath's Snowboard Christmas (2004) (TV) ... Distributor (2005) (USA) (DVD)

Bzots: Gotta Get a Gig (2004) (V) ... Distributor (2004) (USA) (DVD)

"The Fairytaler" (2004) ... Distributor (2005) (USA) (DVD)

Bzots: Escape A Go-Go! (2004) (V) ... Distributor (2004) (USA) (DVD)

The Wheels on the Bus Video: Mango and Papaya's Animal Adventures (2003) (V) ... Distributor (2004) (worldwide) (DVD)

Fish Without a Bicycle (2003) ... Distributor (2005) (USA) (DVD)

Scent of Danger (2002) (TV) ... Distributor (2004) (USA) (DVD)

"Girls Behaving Badly" (2002) ... Distributor (2006) (worldwide) (DVD)

Crossing the Line (2002) (TV) ... Distributor

Video Voyeur: The Susan Wilson Story (2002) (TV) ... Distributor

The Rendering (2002) (TV) ... Distributor, Distributor (2004) (USA) (DVD)

Taking Back Our Town (2001) (TV) ... Distributor

The Wedding Dress (2001) (TV) ... Distributor (USA) (DVD)

Just Ask My Children (2001) (TV) ... Distributor

Dangerous Child (2001) (TV) ... Distributor

Snap Decision (2001) (TV) ... Distributor (2002) (USA) (DVD)

The Familiar Stranger (2001) (TV) ... Distributor

A Mother's Fight for Justice (2001) (TV) ... Distributor (2002) (USA) (DVD)

Range of Motion (2000) (TV) ... Distributor

When Andrew Came Home (2000) (TV) ... Distributor

Jeff Foxworthy's Comedy Classics (2000) (V) ... Distributor (2006) (USA) (DVD)

The Truth About Jane (2000) (TV) ... Distributor

Out of Sync (2000) (TV) ... Distributor

An American Daughter (2000) (TV) ... Distributor

Sex & Mrs. X (2000) (TV) ... Distributor

Another Woman's Husband (2000) (TV) ... Distributor

Where the Truth Lies (1999) (TV) ... Distributor

The Price of a Broken Heart (1999) (TV) ... Distributor

Invisible Child (1999) (TV) ... Distributor

Final Justice (1998) (TV) ... Distributor

Prison of Secrets (1997) (TV) ... Distributor (????) (USA) (DVD)

The Abduction (1996) (TV) ... Distributor

"Davey and Goliath: Christmas Lost and Found" (1965) ... Distributor (2005) (USA) (DVD) (Davey and Goliath, Volume 3)

"Davey and Goliath" (1960) ... Distributor (2005) (USA) (DVD)

 

 

More Background on StarlightFilmGroup.com

StarlightFilmGroup.com served as a central hub for independent film enthusiasts, filmmakers, and distributors, focusing on the promotion and distribution of made-for-TV movies, documentaries, and independent features. Though the website is no longer active, its impact and role in the home entertainment landscape from the late 1990s to the mid-2000s can be reconstructed through public records, industry databases, filmographies, and third-party reviews.

Ownership and Corporate Background

StarlightFilmGroup.com was associated with entities bearing the "Starlight Film" name, most notably in the United Kingdom. Public company records show that Starlight Film Productions Ltd was incorporated in London in 2019, focusing on motion picture and television production. Another related entity, Starlight Film Partners Limited, has a longer history and has been involved in similar business activities. Both companies were small, independent operations rather than subsidiaries of major studios or global media conglomerates. Their filings and business activities suggest a focus on niche film production and distribution, aligning with the independent spirit that StarlightFilmGroup.com represented.

Location and Proximity

The principal offices of the UK-registered Starlight Film entities were based in London, a global center for film and television production. This location provided access to a vibrant creative community, proximity to key industry events, and connections to European and international markets. While the website served a global audience, its business roots were firmly planted in the UK, with possible distribution and partnership activities in the United States and other countries.

History and Evolution

StarlightFilmGroup.com emerged during a transformative era for home entertainment, roughly between 1998 and 2007. This period saw the rise of DVD as the dominant format for home viewing, the decline of VHS, and the increasing fragmentation of the entertainment market. Independent distributors like Starlight Film Group played a crucial role in bringing lesser-known films and television movies to wider audiences, often filling gaps left by major studios.

The website functioned as a showcase for the company's catalogue, providing detailed information about available titles, distribution channels, and special features. It also served as a point of contact for filmmakers seeking distribution and for fans interested in purchasing or renting independent films.

Catalogue and Menus

StarlightFilmGroup.com was known for its diverse menu of titles, spanning genres such as drama, comedy, documentary, and family entertainment. The catalogue included made-for-TV movies, independent features, and special interest documentaries. Many of these films were acquired from international markets or produced in collaboration with independent filmmakers.

Notable titles associated with the Starlight Film Group included:

  • "Dangerous Child" – A drama exploring family dynamics and abuse.

  • "Just Ask My Children" – A harrowing true story of wrongful conviction.

  • "Another Woman's Husband" – A relationship drama with psychological depth.

  • "Invisible Child" – A psychological drama featuring acclaimed actors.

  • "Girls Behaving Badly" – A hidden-camera comedy show with a cult following.

  • "Mo'Nique's F.A.T. Chance" – A reality competition celebrating body positivity.

  • "Romancing the Bride" – A romantic comedy with a twist.

The website's menu structure allowed users to browse by genre, release date, and popularity, reflecting the user-friendly design trends of the early 2000s.

Goals and Mission

The overarching goal of StarlightFilmGroup.com was to democratize access to independent and made-for-TV films, providing a platform for stories that might otherwise be overlooked by mainstream distributors. The company sought to:

  • Support independent filmmakers by offering distribution opportunities.

  • Curate a diverse selection of films catering to various demographics.

  • Foster a community of film lovers interested in unique, thought-provoking content.

  • Bridge the gap between television movies and home entertainment consumers.

This mission resonated with audiences seeking alternatives to blockbuster fare and contributed to the growth of niche film markets in the DVD era.

Audience and Popularity

The primary audience for StarlightFilmGroup.com consisted of independent film enthusiasts, collectors of made-for-TV movies, and viewers interested in social issues and underrepresented stories. The website attracted:

  • Fans of specific TV movies and cult classics.

  • Families seeking wholesome or educational content.

  • Collectors of rare or out-of-print DVDs.

  • Filmmakers and industry professionals looking for distribution partners.

While never achieving the mass-market reach of major studios, the site cultivated a loyal following among those passionate about independent cinema and television movies. Its popularity was reflected in online film forums, user reviews, and the secondary market for its distributed DVDs.

Critical Reception and Reviews

StarlightFilmGroup.com and its associated releases received varied reviews across online platforms and film databases. Some titles distributed by the group, such as "Invisible Child" and "Just Ask My Children," garnered critical acclaim for their performances and storytelling. Others, like "Girls Behaving Badly," achieved cult status for their unique approach to comedy and reality television. Review aggregators and forums frequently cited the company's knack for selecting emotionally resonant and socially relevant stories.

Awards and Recognition

While StarlightFilmGroup.com itself did not receive major industry awards, several films in its catalogue were recognized in their respective categories. For example, "Just Ask My Children" and "Dangerous Child" were lauded for their performances and social impact. The company’s focus on quality over quantity helped elevate its reputation among independent distributors.

Press and Media Coverage

Throughout its operational years, StarlightFilmGroup.com and the films it distributed were occasionally featured in entertainment trade publications, DVD review sites, and independent film blogs. Coverage often highlighted the company’s role in making hard-to-find TV movies and documentaries accessible to a wider audience. The rise of the DVD market and the growing appetite for niche content were recurring themes in media discussions about the company’s significance.

Cultural and Social Significance

StarlightFilmGroup.com played an important role in the independent film ecosystem during a period of rapid technological and cultural change. By focusing on underrepresented stories, social issues, and diverse genres, the company contributed to the democratization of film distribution. Its catalogue provided a platform for voices and topics often overlooked by mainstream Hollywood, including family drama, social justice, and body positivity.

The company’s willingness to take risks on unconventional projects mirrored broader shifts in the entertainment industry, as audiences increasingly sought out content that reflected their experiences and values. In this way, StarlightFilmGroup.com helped pave the way for the streaming era’s explosion of diverse, on-demand content.

Details, Insights, and Examples

StarlightFilmGroup.com’s success was built on a combination of strategic curation, industry partnerships, and a deep understanding of its audience. For example:

  • The company often acquired distribution rights to international films and TV movies, adapting them for English-speaking markets.

  • Its DVD releases frequently included bonus features such as behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and commentary tracks, enhancing the value proposition for collectors.

  • Collaborations with independent filmmakers allowed the company to showcase emerging talent and unique storytelling perspectives.

  • The company’s focus on social issues, such as wrongful conviction and family abuse, resonated with viewers seeking meaningful and thought-provoking entertainment.

 

Although StarlightFilmGroup.com is no longer active, its legacy endures in the independent film community and among fans of made-for-TV movies. By championing diverse stories, supporting independent creators, and embracing the changing landscape of home entertainment, the company left a lasting mark on the industry. Its story serves as a reminder of the vital role that small, passionate distributors play in bringing unique and important films to audiences around the world.

 

StarlightFilmGroup.com