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Film Encyclopedia Entry 1777274464

** "Moonlight" is a 2016 American **psychological drama film** directed by Barry Jenkins, based on Tarell Alvin McCraney's unpublished play "In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue." The film won several **Academy Awards**, including Best Picture, making it a groundbreaking achievement in the history of cinema. **CONTENT:** ## Overview "Moonlight" is a poignant and powerful coming-of-age story that explores the life of Chiron, a young black man growing up in Miami. The film is presented in three distinct chapters, each representing a different stage in Chiron's life. The movie delves into themes of identity, masculinity, and the struggles of growing up in a world that often seems hostile and unforgiving. With its stunning cinematography, evocative performances, and nuanced direction, "Moonlight" has become a modern classic, resonating with audiences worldwide. The film's narrative is layered and complex, reflecting the fragmented nature of Chiron's experiences. The first chapter, "Little," introduces us to a young Chiron, who is struggling to find his place in the world. He is a shy and vulnerable boy, often the target of bullying and ridicule. The second chapter, "Chiron," shows us a more confident and assertive young man, who is trying to navigate the complexities of adolescence. The final chapter, "Black," brings us full circle, as Chiron, now a grown man, reflects on the lessons he has learned and the scars he has carried with him. ## History/Background "Moonlight" was first conceived by Tarell Alvin McCraney, a playwright and screenwriter, who drew inspiration from his own experiences growing up in Miami. McCraney's play, "In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue," was an unpublished work, but it caught the attention of Barry Jenkins, a young filmmaker who was eager to bring the story to life on the big screen. Jenkins and McCraney collaborated closely on the script, refining the narrative and developing the characters. The film was shot on location in Miami, using a combination of digital and 35mm film. ## Key Information * **Release Date:** October 21, 2016 * **Runtime:** 111 minutes * **Genre:** Psychological drama * **Cast:** Trevante Rhodes, Naomie Harris, André Holland, Jharrel Jerome, Mahershala Ali * **Cinematography:** James Laxton * **Music:** Nicholas Britell * **Awards:** Academy Award for Best Picture, Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor (Mahershala Ali), Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture - Drama ## Significance "Moonlight" is a groundbreaking film that has had a profound impact on the film industry and popular culture. Its win at the 89th Academy Awards marked a historic moment, as it became the first film with an all-black cast to win Best Picture. The film's success has also paved the way for more diverse and inclusive storytelling in Hollywood. "Moonlight" has been praised for its nuanced portrayal of black masculinity, its exploration of themes such as identity and trauma, and its beautiful cinematography. The film has become a cultural touchstone, inspiring countless conversations and debates about the power of cinema to reflect and shape our understanding of the world. **INFOBOX:** - Name: Moonlight - Type: Psychological drama film - Date: 2016 - Location: Miami, Florida - Known For: First film with an all-black cast to win Best Picture at the Academy Awards **TAGS:** Barry Jenkins, Tarell Alvin McCraney, Psychological drama, Coming-of-age story, Black masculinity, Identity, Trauma, Cinematography, Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards.