I'm here to write a tiny little post about a movie I deeply loved. I'm hoping it moves any of you who have not yet seen the thing will feel encouraged to see the thing.
Said post will be tiny because I want to genuinely push myself on the writing briefer posts front so posts happen (a lot) more often.
I present to you: "Moonlight" (2016).
I made a point to see "Moonlight" when I was in City Where I Used to Live a few months ago because I was really excited for the opportunity to see it before it opened in wide release.
Without caveat, it is one of the most beautiful, well-executed films I have ever seen.
Some bullet points:
- Excellent, sophisticated, subtle performances. In particular, the main character is a relatively under-verbal person, yet communicates so much through facial expression, body language, and what is said and unsaid.
- Gorgeous imagery. The film is filled with arresting imagery, bathed in gorgeous color and light, including the light giving the film its name.
- A story centering Black and Brown lives. It's gratifying for a film centered on a Black person's life to receive such attention and acclaim. "Moonlight" tells the nuanced and complex story of a Black man's identity development. It does so without getting bogged down in catering to white fragility and need for inclusion. It confidently asserts that this story is precious and important to witness, regardless of the audience's ethnicity.
- The most moving, heartbreaking definition of a word ever. No spoilers, but the scene to which I'm referring was stunningly affecting, filled with kindness and human decency.
- Emotional complexity. "Moonlight" is a film that spans a considerable emotional range without feeling heavy-handed or predictable. It takes us to places of pain and vulnerability and treats those places with reverence.
I cannot speak highly enough of this movie. Obvi rating: 5.
Go see it!
Till next time--hopefully sooner rather than later!
{Heart}
