Review of Moonlight (2016) by Frank C — 25 Feb 2017

A brilliant film dissecting the complicated experience at the intersection of race, gender, and sexual orientation, Barry Jenkins gives us a film that is not only beautiful to watch but is so very important in this day and age.

There are many films that rely on an ensemble cast, but Moonlight is an example where the removal of any one actor or character from the film causes the script to fall apart at the seams. Mahershala Ali and Naomie Harris are more than deserving of their accolades, but the three Chirons, Janelle Monae, and the rest are all just as deserving.

At a tight 110 minute runtime, Moonlight moves with confidence, giving the audience just enough of each scene to deliver the intended impact. With tight and engrossing camerawork along with another excellent soundtrack from the underrated Nicholas Britell, the artistry matches the performance. Moonlight is in my opinion the film of the year.