"Moonlight" Film Review

Moonlight is a truly eye-opening film that shows the reality that abuse, even if only verbal, can be just as damaging as any other kind. Many times, verbal abuse is worse than physical abuse because once the mental state is broken, it's difficult to put back together.

The film follows Chiron, played by Ashton Sanders, a young black boy that has a crack addicted mother and is often the victim of bullying. He chooses not to speak and up to this point has gone through life feeling worthless. His mother, played by the talented Naomie Harris, is probably the worst abuser of all, acting like she was worried about his absence from home but then screaming insults at him later. Chiron had no friends, and probably felt like he could never have any. That is, until the neighborhood drug dealer Juan, played by Mahershala Ali, notices Chiron's neglection and takes it upon himself to show Chiron the love and kindness he needs. Juan and his girlfriend Teresa, played by Janelle Monae, help shape Chiron into the man he otherwise most likely never would have become. Adding to his complications comes the revelation that Chiron is gay and has been suppressing it because he thought it was wrong. Even as an adult, he never truly is open about that part of his life and it is truly a shame that people made him feel like he couldn't be open without being bullied, ridiculed, or criticized.

The acting is real and phenomenal. Even the child actors were top-notch. You can tell that the film was written and shot with care, each scene bringing forth a devastating beauty. Ashton Sanders, who plays Chiron, is fairly new to the movie business but his future is truly promising after seeing his beautiful performance here in Moonlight.

In conclusion, I recommend everyone see Moonlight, especially if you're a victim of abuse. It's deeply emotional and heartbreaking and truthfully visualizes the reality of abuse. I truly hope this film helps others realize that we all have a purpose and, even though life may not begin fairly, we can all shape our own lives if we only take control. I give this film 4 out of 4 stars.