Moonlight Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A quiet dude gets bullied, mentored by a drug dealer, maybe likes his friend, and then becomes a jacked drug dealer himself before awkwardly reconnecting with said friend.

🍿 Moonlight: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Little (Chiron’s Childhood)

In Liberty City, Miami, a young and withdrawn Chiron, nicknamed “Little,” is found hiding from bullies by Juan, a local drug dealer. Juan and his girlfriend, Teresa, offer Chiron a safe haven, providing him with care and guidance that is absent from his home life with his crack-addicted mother, Paula. Juan becomes a father figure to Chiron, teaching him to swim and offering advice about finding his own path in life. Chiron struggles with questions of identity and sexuality, asking Juan what a “f****t” is. Juan explains that it is a word used to make gay people feel bad and assures Chiron that there is nothing wrong with being gay. This section explores Chiron’s early experiences with bullying, neglect, and the search for acceptance.

Chiron (Adolescence)

As a teenager, Chiron continues to grapple with his identity while navigating high school. He faces constant bullying from his classmates, particularly Terrel, and seeks solace in his friendship with Kevin. Paula’s addiction worsens, leading her to exploit Chiron for money. One night, Chiron and Kevin share a tender moment on the beach, leading to a sexual encounter. The following day, Terrel pressures Kevin to participate in a hazing ritual against Chiron. Kevin reluctantly punches Chiron, leaving him vulnerable and hurt. Feeling betrayed, Chiron retaliates by attacking Terrel at school and is subsequently arrested.

Black (Adulthood)

Years later, Chiron, now known as “Black,” lives in Atlanta and works as a drug dealer, mirroring Juan’s past. He receives a call from Kevin, who apologizes for his actions in high school and invites him to visit Miami. Haunted by his past, Chiron is hesitant but decides to return. Chiron visits his mother, Paula, who is now in rehab. She apologizes for her past behavior, and Chiron forgives her. He then reunites with Kevin, who now works as a cook in a diner. The two men confront their shared history and lingering feelings.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Chiron/Little/Black (Alex R. Hibbert/Ashton Sanders/Trevante Rhodes): A young African-American man struggling with identity and sexuality throughout his difficult childhood, adolescence, and adulthood in Miami.
• Paula (Naomie Harris): Chiron’s mother, battling crack addiction and creating an unstable environment for her son.
• Juan (Mahershala Ali): A drug dealer who becomes a father figure to young Chiron, offering guidance and protection.
• Teresa (Janelle Monáe): Juan’s girlfriend who provides Chiron with a safe and nurturing home environment.
• Kevin (Jharrel Jerome/Andre Holland): Chiron’s close friend and love interest whose relationship evolves through different stages of their lives.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Juan: “At some point, you gotta decide for yourself who you gonna be. Can’t let nobody make that decision for you.” – Juan gives Chiron advice about self-determination and not letting others define him.
• Paula: “You my son. Love you always. No matter what. Okay?” – Paula apologizes to Chiron at the rehab center trying to reconnect with her son.
• Kevin: “Hey, man. I miss you. I was just thinking about you, man. That’s all.” – Kevin’s phone call to Chiron hints at unresolved feelings and regret over their past.
• Kevin: “I haven’t touched anyone since.” – Kevin is trying to convey to Black that he is still interested in him and it was more than just a hook up for him.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $4,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $27,854,932
• Worldwide Gross: $65,172,611

💥 Moonlight Reviews

Personal Review

Wow, ‘Moonlight’ just hit me hard. The way it explores Chiron’s life, split into three parts, felt so raw and real. I loved how the movie showed his struggles with identity and sexuality. The scenes with Juan, the drug dealer, were so touching and unexpected. They showed a different side of mentorship. I was particularly moved by the ending, when Chiron and Kevin reconnect. Their shared vulnerability was beautiful.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Viewers interested in character-driven dramas”
  • “Fans of independent cinema”
  • “Audiences seeking stories about identity and self-discovery”
  • “LGBTQ+ viewers looking for representation”
  • “Those who appreciate poetic and visually stunning films”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Drug use”
  • “Bullying”
  • “Homophobia”
  • “Sexual content”
  • “Violence”
  • “Strong language”

Professional Reviews

• The New York Times: “A film of lingering beauty, examining masculinity and identity with grace and insight. The performances are exceptional, particularly Mahershala Ali’s.
• RogerEbert.com: “Moonlight is a profound and moving experience, a powerful statement on identity, love, and the search for belonging. Barry Jenkins directs with a poetic eye, capturing moments of quiet intensity.
• Rolling Stone: “A landmark film, both intimate and epic in scope. The story resonates deeply, exploring themes of race, sexuality, and the challenges of self-discovery. See this movie.

Audience Reactions

The raw, emotional performances captivated viewers.: The acting was amazing, especially Mahershala Ali and Naomie Harris, everyone felt real and relatable.

The story’s honesty resonated deeply with the audience.: People loved the film’s sensitive portrayal of Chiron’s journey of self-discovery and the issues of race, sexuality, and masculinity.

Overall Consensus: Moonlight is a critically acclaimed film lauded for its powerful performances, sensitive storytelling, and exploration of identity and masculinity.

Awards

1. Academy Award (Best Picture)- 2017
2. Academy Award (Best Supporting Actor)- 2017
3. Academy Award (Best Adapted Screenplay)- 2017
4. Golden Globe (Best Motion Picture – Drama)- 2017

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Naomi Harris shot all of her scenes in just three days due to scheduling conflicts with her ‘Spectre’ promotional tour.”
• “The film is divided into three chapters representing different stages in Chiron’s life: childhood, adolescence, and adulthood, each portrayed by a different actor.”

🖥️ How to Watch Moonlight?

Moonlight is available to stream on platforms like Showtime and DIRECTV. You can also rent or purchase the film on demand from services like Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and Vudu. Check your local listings for broadcast options.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Moonlight, you might like these similar films:

• Boyhood (2014): Both films chronicle the life of a young person over many years, exploring themes of identity and growing up.
• Brokeback Mountain (2005): Explores the complex relationship between two men and the challenges they face in a society that doesn’t accept them.
• Pariah (2011): A coming-of-age story about a young Black woman struggling with her identity as a lesbian.
• Call Me by Your Name (2017): This film also deals with homosexuality as its main focus, particularly love and acceptance.

🛒 Moonlight Related Products

• Moonlight [Blu-ray]: Own a piece of cinematic history with the Blu-ray edition of ‘Moonlight’. Experience the stunning visuals and powerful storytelling in high definition.
• Moonlight: The Screenplay: Dive deeper into the world of Moonlight with the official screenplay. Understand the nuances of the dialogue and the creative process behind the film.
• Moonlight Movie Poster: Decorate your space with the iconic ‘Moonlight’ movie poster. A striking visual reminder of this unforgettable film.
• Moonlight Inspired T-Shirt: Show your love for ‘Moonlight’ with a unique t-shirt inspired by the film. High-quality print and comfortable fit.

🎧 Soundtrack

Moonlight features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Every Nigger Is a Star” – performed by Boris Gardiner
• “Hello Stranger” – performed by Barbara Lewis
• “Cell Therapy” – performed by Goodie Mob

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

“Moonlight” wins Best Picture | 89th Oscars (2017)

Relive the electrifying moment when Moonlight triumphed at the Oscars! This clip captures the historic win, a testament to the film’s poignant storytelling and exceptional filmmaking.

Moonlight Explained: Symbols, Camera & More

Embark on a journey to uncover the hidden depths of Moonlight! This video breaks down the film’s technical brilliance, revealing how every element contributes to its powerful storytelling.

The Lover Within | How Moonlight Relates to ALL Men

Prepare to be challenged and introspective as this video analyzes Moonlight’s exploration of masculinity. It delves into the complexities of identity and offers a unique lens through which to appreciate the film’s profound message.

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