Review of Moonlight (2016) by The D — 26 Feb 2017
This year's best two films validate the Golden Globe's format of two "best" categories, and Moonlight, La La Land and Lion are this year's disparate bests. For me the 5-star rating system boils down to how much I am MOVED by a film (after all, isn't that why we go?).
Moonlight is not a black film or a gay film or a coming of age film. It's themes are universal and powerful. Another reviewer referred to the style as Malick-esque in that there is strong use of silence over verbosity (it is not as slickly done as Malick but it is not supposed to be), or perhaps his long absence between films.
Moonlight is effective in its rawness and grit. The acting here is Oscar worthy although many characters that each share the screen in this 3-act piece (as a young boy, an adolescent, and a young man), which doesn't lend itself well to awards formats.
Mahershala Ali is a LOCK for best supporting actor. If less is more, this is a feast! Go in with an open mind and just experience this film rather then try to micro-analyze. Our hearts can fill in the large blanks and come away with the big story.
It is unconventional yet powerful. It is an atypical 3-act play that stuck with me long afterwards. It is difficult to watch but we must, and it will haunt you long afterwards. Not the classic Odyssey tale of Lion nor the slick production of La La Land, it stands as one of this year's Big 3 far above the others.
5 stars for emotional impact and artistic expression. Best film of 2016 imo.
This review of Moonlight (2016) was written by The D on 26 Feb 2017.
Moonlight has generally received very positive reviews.
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