WHAT better way to say goodbye to summer than a movie by moonlight on the beach? This weekend marks the last 2008 Moonlight Movie Series event, finishing up a highly successful summer of showing family films at scenic locations around the island.

The event, which kicked off on June 27, was a huge hit this summer with locals and tourists alike, averaging about 2000 people per showing.

Eugene Dean, managing director for Startime Entertainment, spoke about the smashing success of the family-oriented event. He said: "The event has exceeded expectations in terms of response from the general public and the attendance at all the events. We've built up the event to where we have anywhere between 1,500 to 2,000 people showing up to the event on average.

"In that regard it's been a huge success. We've had hundreds of tourists attend. Some are from hotels, a lot from locals bringing friends who are visiting them from overseas. We've had a lot of overseas brides and grooms with their wedding parties.

"We've even had a few wedding planners call us and thank us for putting on the series because they said it's been a great edition to the wedding couples' entertainment plans. It's been a huge success and it's something the community has really appreciated. It's become the premiere family event of the summer."

Speaking about the event this weekend Mr. Dean said: "This weekend we will be at Clearwater Beach and we have a full line up of entertainment including African dancers, Gombeys, live performances by Ras Georges, Gavin Djata Smith and Taylor Rankin. We will also be showing a short film produced by the Tourism Department followed by the feature film The Peaceful Warrior.

"The Peaceful Warrior, in our opinion, is an important and fitting film to show right now. It's based on a true story about a young man who is a gymnast who meets his mentor, played by Nick Nolte, who guides him by tapping into new realms of strength within."

With the success of this year's Moonlight Movie Series, next year looks even more promising. Mr. Dean said: "Next year we are hoping to attract new sponsors so we can make it even longer. Based on the success of this year we have had a few corporate sponsors approach us and Tourism is still on board as a sponsor for next year. For this event to be sustained for years moving forward is going to require more corporate sponsorship."

Mr. Dean hopes people come out and enjoy the final Moonlight Movie and added: "To actually see the environment and see the families coming out and visitors mingling with locals, everyone smiling and having fun, is in essence what it's all about. Our motto is 'unity in the community' and that is the foundation for everything we do. We strive to produce events that will bring people together."

The event is held at Clearwater Beach tonight and starts at 7 p.m.. The movie will start once the sun goes down.