We’ve all been through it – that phase in life where you’re trying to find yourself and explore who you are. Well, if you’re still in that phase or you know someone that is, this is the perfect movie for you.
“Moonlight” is based on a never-released work by MacArthur-Prized winning playwrite Tarell Alvin McCraney, and directed by multi-talented Barry Jenkins. The film is a timesless tale of human connections and self-discovery. Moonlight follows the life of a young black man from childhood to adulthood living in Liberty City, Miami as he struggles to find himself.
“Moonlight” shows main charater Chiron (also known as Little/Black) growing up bullied and called a number of gay slurs in elementary school. That’s until he meets he best friend Kevin, who accepts him entirely who he is and teaches Chiron to stand up for himself. Kevin is also the first and only person he could share any form of relationship with in which he opens up to. Not only do they build a strong friendship but a intense sexual affair as well.
Living with a drug addicted mother, he finds security and a place to call home with a local drug dealer named Juan (played by Mahershala Ali, “House of Cards”) and his girlfriend Teresa (singer Janelle Monáe). Not knowing Juan is actually his mothers dealer, he looks up to him as a father figure. From a young age Chiron questioned his sexuality and asks many questions to Juan and Teresa, such as “What is a faggot?” and “Was he gay”, etc. Juan answers Chiron’s question in the most accepting way he can, considering the black community’s codes about masculinity and perceived toughness. He gives a non-judgemental attitude and some important advice: “At some point, you gotta decide for yourself who you gonna be. You can’t let nobody make that decision for you.”
For anyone that’s struggling with any form of acceptance or self love, watch this inspiring movie. You’ll leave with a new perspective about life and love.
Check out the trailer below!
Until Next Time!
xoxo
