Moonlight

The buzz on Moonlight has been feverish and it deserves it. A deeply personal account told in three acts (boy/teen/man) about the struggles of discovering and grappling with your sexuality in black America, and dealing with some of the more unfortunate realities of life in those deprived, disenfranchised, and often times forgotten communities. Director Barry Jenkins has crafted an original, heartfelt and realistic look into a life that you wouldn't ordinarily see. It is not an easy film to watch, its wounds cut deep, but it is provocative and moving, not to mention beautifully shot, with splendid performances all around. Travente Rhodes and Ashton Sanders as both the man and teen parts of the story are wonderful, but it's hard to argue that Alex R. Hibbert doesn't steal the show in the opening act as the young boy. Naomie Harris is also a standout as the junkie mother. A compelling film from start to finish and one not likely to be forgotten.