Moonlight (2016)

Last updated:
October 20, 2024

Detailed Summary

Little: The Early Years

Introduction to Chiron (“Little”)
Chiron, nicknamed “Little” (Alex R. Hibbert), is a shy, withdrawn child growing up in a rough neighborhood in Miami. He struggles with his identity and bullying from his peers. Little is raised by his single mother, Paula (Naomie Harris), who is struggling with drug addiction.

Mentorship of Juan
Chiron finds a father figure in Juan (Mahershala Ali), a local drug dealer, and his girlfriend Teresa (Janelle Monáe). Juan provides Little with a sense of safety and guidance, teaching him how to swim and offering him a refuge from his troubled home life.

Chiron: The Teenage Years

Struggles with Identity and Bullying
As a teenager, Chiron (Ashton Sanders) continues to grapple with his identity and is relentlessly bullied by his classmates, especially by Terrel (Patrick Decile). He also deals with his mother’s increasing drug abuse and erratic behavior.

Forming a Connection with Kevin
Chiron shares a brief but intimate moment on the beach with his friend Kevin (Jharrel Jerome), who gives him his first kiss. This experience is significant for Chiron’s understanding of his sexuality. However, the next day, Kevin is coerced by Terrel into beating Chiron as part of a hazing ritual, further traumatizing him.

Chiron’s Breaking Point
After enduring the brutal beating and continued bullying, Chiron reaches a breaking point and retaliates by attacking Terrel with a chair. This act of violence leads to Chiron being arrested and sent to a juvenile detention center.

Black: The Adult Years

Reinventing Himself
As an adult, Chiron (Trevante Rhodes) has adopted the nickname “Black” and has become a hardened drug dealer in Atlanta, mirroring the life of his mentor Juan. Despite his tough exterior, Chiron remains deeply affected by his past and struggles with his identity.

Reconnecting with Kevin
Chiron receives an unexpected call from Kevin (André Holland), who now works as a cook in Miami. Chiron decides to visit Kevin, leading to a poignant reunion where they share a meal at Kevin’s diner. The two men confront their past and the feelings they have for each other.

Emotional Resolution
The film ends with a vulnerable moment where Chiron opens up to Kevin about his struggles and the impact their brief connection had on his life. Kevin offers Chiron a sense of acceptance and comfort, signifying a potential path towards healing.

Movie Ending

The film concludes with Chiron and Kevin in Kevin’s apartment. In a tender and emotionally charged scene, Chiron admits that Kevin is the only man who has ever touched him. The film’s final shot is a flashback to young Chiron standing on the beach, symbolizing his journey towards self-acceptance and the enduring impact of his formative experiences.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

No, “Moonlight” does not have any post-credits scenes.

Type of Movie

“Moonlight” is a coming-of-age drama that explores themes of identity, sexuality, and self-discovery. The film stands out for its intimate storytelling and profound emotional depth.

Cast

Trevante Rhodes as Adult Chiron (“Black”)
Ashton Sanders as Teenage Chiron
Alex R. Hibbert as Child Chiron (“Little”)
André Holland as Adult Kevin
Jharrel Jerome as Teenage Kevin
Jaden Piner as Child Kevin
Mahershala Ali as Juan
Naomie Harris as Paula
Janelle Monáe as Teresa

Film Music and Composer

Nicholas Britell composed the score for “Moonlight,” blending classical and contemporary music uniquely. The soundtrack also features songs by artists like Boris Gardiner and Barbara Lewis, enhancing the film’s emotional and atmospheric depth.

Filming Locations

Miami, Florida: The film was shot in various locations around Miami, including Liberty City, where Chiron grows up. The setting is crucial to the story, reflecting the struggles and vibrancy of the community.

Awards and Nominations

Academy Awards: Won Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor (Mahershala Ali), and Best Adapted Screenplay.
Golden Globe Awards: Won Best Motion Picture – Drama.
BAFTA Awards: Nominated for Best Film, Best Supporting Actor (Mahershala Ali), and Best Adapted Screenplay.

Behind the Scenes Insights

Mahershala Ali prepared for his role by spending time with real-life drug dealers to understand their lives better.
The film was shot in just 25 days, with a modest budget, showcasing the dedication and passion of the cast and crew.
Naomie Harris filmed all her scenes in just three days due to scheduling conflicts.

Inspirations and References

Source Material: The film is based on Tarell Alvin McCraney’s semi-autobiographical play “In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue.”
Personal Experiences: Both McCraney and director Barry Jenkins drew on their own experiences growing up in Liberty City, Miami.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

There are no widely known alternate endings or significant deleted scenes for this film. The final product closely follows the director’s vision and the source material.

Book Adaptations and Differences

Adaptation: The film is adapted from Tarell Alvin McCraney’s play but expands on it by dividing Chiron’s life into three distinct chapters.
Differences: The film provides a more visual and intimate portrayal of Chiron’s experiences, adding depth to the characters and their interactions.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

Juan Teaching Chiron to Swim: A symbolic and tender moment of mentorship.
Chiron and Kevin on the Beach: The pivotal scene where they share their first kiss.
Chiron’s Confrontation with Terrel: The moment Chiron fights back against his bully.
Reunion with Kevin: The emotional climax of the film, where Chiron and Kevin reconnect.

Iconic Quotes

“At some point, you gotta decide for yourself who you’re gonna be. Can’t let nobody make that decision for you.” – Juan
“Who is you, Chiron?” – Kevin
“You’re the only man that’s ever touched me. The only one. I haven’t really touched anyone since.” – Chiron

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

The film’s three chapters, “Little,” “Chiron,” and “Black,” reflect Chiron’s evolving identity through different stages of his life.
The use of water imagery throughout the film symbolizes Chiron’s search for purity and self-discovery.

Trivia

Mahershala Ali became the first Muslim actor to win an Oscar for acting.
The film’s budget was only $1.5 million, yet it grossed over $65 million worldwide.
“Moonlight” is the first film with an all-Black cast and the first LGBTQ film to win the Best Picture Oscar.

Why Watch?

“Moonlight” is a beautifully crafted film that portrays a young man’s struggle with identity and acceptance in a poignant and honest way. Mahershala Ali and Trevante Rhodes deliver powerful performances. Stunning cinematography and a compelling narrative make it a must-watch.