About Moonlight

Moonlight is a 2016 American drama film directed by Barry Jenkins, based on an unpublished semi-autobiographical play titled "In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue" written by Tarell Alvin McCraney. Set in Miami, the film presents three stages in the life of the main character, Chiron. It explores the difficulties he faces with his sexuality and identity, including the physical and emotional abuse he receives resulting from it.

Making / Production

The film was produced by A24 and Plan B Entertainment with Barry Jenkins as the director. Throughout the film, cinematographer James Laxton brilliantly showcases Miami's eastern seaside, effectively reflecting Chiron's emotional journey.

Actors

• Mahershala Ali as Juan, the kindly drug dealer who becomes a surrogate father to Chiron and contributes a subtly powerful performance that earned him an Oscar.
• Naomie Harris as Paula, who transforms from a loving mother to a drug addict. Her potent performance earned her an Oscar nomination.
• Trevante Rhodes, Ashton Sanders and Alex R. Hibbert as Chiron, each actor portraying Chiron in a different age and providing deep introspection into the character's life.

Trivia/Interesting Facts

• The film was made on a shoestring budget of only $1.5 million and filmed over just 25 days.
• Much of the cast and crew had personal connections to the story, coming from Miami and able to relate to the depiction of drug abuse and struggles with identity.
• Naomie Harris filmed her entire role in just three days, between promotional tours for Spectre.

Awards

The film has won several awards including the Golden Globe award for Best Motion Picture - Drama. It also won three Academy Awards - Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor for Mahershala Ali, and Best Adapted Screenplay.

Quotes

• "At some point, you gotta decide for yourself who you're going to be. Can't let nobody make that decision for you." - Juan
• "You're the only man that's ever touched me...the only one. I haven't really touched anyone since." - Chiron

Music, Soundtrack

• The film's haunting and evocative score was composed by Nicholas Britell and follows a "chopped and screwed" style.
• The song "Hello Stranger" by Barbara Lewis serves as a motif in the story.