Moonlight (2016)

User Review

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  TheMovieDiorama

  10 / 10

  Moonlight might not captivate the average moviegoer, but for me this was a personal and intimate journey. Once in a blue moon, I witness a landmark in cinematic history. A film so masterful, that it is near impossible to fault. I can say with the utmost of confidence, Moonlight is that film. Wow. The story centres around Chiron, as he grows up within the boundaries of drugs and violence. Trying to place himself in society and discover his sexuality, Chiron navigates the dangers of life but most importantly family and love. I'm going to review this slightly differently. We all know Naomie Harris, Mahershala Ali and Trevante Rhodes were exceptional. There is no question that many view this a cinematic masterpiece. Barry Jenkins direction and screenplay being outstanding, particularly his utilisation of blurring the background so that the focus is always on the characters. We all know this, it's the reason why it's the best reviewed film of 2016. For me, Moonlight is an experience. It is so utterly relatable to me. The portrayal of being afraid of yourself. External environments preventing you from being your true self. Undergoing the process of discovering yourself sexually. Absolutely and undeniably dealt with attentive care and professional delicacy. To have an important film affiliated among the best of the best means so much to me. Films aren't just a medium for entertainment, they can be used to evoke emotions. Journeys so personal and relatable, that it's as if some of your life is onscreen. As if someone out there understands you. Watching Chiron grow, as we witness three distinct stages of his childhood, felt real. His development is never forced, it's not a means to further the story...it's all natural. How he yearns for a father that he never had. How his drug abusing mother confines him into a world of reclusive solidarity. The moment he shares his first sexual encounter. It's just a thing of beauty. I can't fully describe how powerful and important this film is. Not just to cinema, but to me. Without a shadow of doubt, Moonlight gets the perfect rating.

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