A Love Story in Moonlight

Genre: Drama

Starring: Mahershala Ali, Naomie Harris, Janelle Monáe

“Moonlight” is highly acclaimed for its sensitive portrayal of black gay identity. There are many firsts associated with this movie. It is the first LGBT film, and the first low-budget film to have won as many nominations or won the Academy Award for Best Picture. The film is based on Tarell Alvin McCraney’s autobiographical play, In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue. It tells the story of a young black man Miami discovering his identity; beginning with his young days, and moving on to his adolescence and adulthood.

The story is a gripping and sensitive depiction of the issues faced by a black LGBT, as he comes to terms with his sexuality and identity. Although many films have highlighted the physical abuse faced by members of the LGBT, “Moonlight” is a coming-of-age drama because it also underscores the underlying emotional abuse. The movie is a dramatic depiction of the various issues confronting a young man as he grows into adulthood, accepting his identity and all the outcomes of being a LGBT.

The huge commercial success and wide viewership of this film that went beyond borders or sections of community, bears testimony to the fact that the film has touched the chord of a diverse audience wanting to understand the LGBT community.