Dear Professor Kellejian,
My interest in Moonlight stems from a deep connection with the minority groups depicted in the film. As a minority youth, confusion about self-identity has accompanied us throughout our growth, encompassing cultural identity, gender identity, and social identity. When these three types of identity confusion intersect, life becomes even more complex and challenging. This theme resonates strongly with the central narrative of the film. The protagonist, Chiron, was born and raised in a racially segregated community with a mother who is addicted to drugs. He was bullied at school. For most of the film, Chiron is characterized as silent and introverted, absorbing all the pain of being bullied, discriminated against by his peers, and marginalized by society. However, subtle changes begin to occur when he spends time with Juan, leading to a transformation in his inner world. I believe this is because Juan’s characterization is designed to challenge the stereotypes and stigma often associated with African-American people.
In the story of "Little," Juan helps Chiron when he is hiding from bullies, offering him a meal and sending him home (Moonlight 4:34). Juan also refuses to allow others to use drugs in his community, even when Chiron’s mother’s addiction becomes apparent (9:15). This rejection of conventional stereotypes about black people provides a model for Chiron’s transformation. Juan’s role is pivotal, representing a figure of strength, compassion, and integrity, qualities that are often overlooked or misrepresented in society’s portrayal of black men. Through his interactions with Juan, Chiron begins to see an alternative path, one that is not defined by the negative expectations placed upon him by society.
Chiron’s transformation is gradual, and several scenes illustrate his emerging identity. One of the most impactful scenes is when he confronts the kids who have bullied him at school. The night before, Chiron had a deep and meaningful conversation with his friend on the beach, which awakened his sexual awareness (McCluskey 309). The following day, when they meet at the playground, Chiron silently endures the physical blows from his tormentors, saying nothing but absorbing every hit until it ends (57:45). Despite having no lines in this scene, Chiron is insulted as a “faggot,” a term that adds another layer of pain to his already burdened soul. The use of shaky close-ups in this scene allows the audience to witness the intense emotional turmoil on Chiron’s face, making it a powerful moment of connection for viewers like myself. In this moment, Chiron’s identity as a black gay man begins to take shape, despite the intense pressure to conform to societal norms.
This scene may also symbolize a broader transformation within the queer film industry and the perception of queer groups, particularly within a society dominated by white, masculine ideals. For gay people and queer groups, it is no longer necessary to hide their true selves in the face of pressure and stigma. Only by affirming their identity can they resist being defined by others and reclaim their own narratives. The film’s use of close-ups and shaky shots (hand-held cameras) powerfully conveys the faith and resilience of minority people, even though their journey may be fraught with struggle. Over and over again, Moonlight instills in me a sense of hope and confidence, encouraging me to see the truth for gay people and minority groups and to believe in the importance of fighting for true freedom and human rights.
Moreover, Moonlight challenges the audience to reflect on the broader societal implications of identity formation. It pushes us to question how societal expectations and prejudices shape the lives of individuals who do not fit neatly into predefined categories. Chiron’s journey is not just a personal one but also a reflection of the larger societal pressures faced by many marginalized communities. The film’s exploration of intersectionality—how race, sexuality, and socio-economic status intersect to shape an individual’s experience—resonates deeply with anyone who has felt the weight of multiple identities.
As I reflect on the film, I realize that Moonlight is not just about Chiron’s struggle for self-identity; it is also about the power of relationships in shaping who we become. Juan’s kindness, Teresa’s (Juan’s girlfriend) warmth, and Kevin’s (Chiron’s friend) friendship all play crucial roles in Chiron’s journey. These relationships provide him with moments of solace and self-acceptance, even when the world around him seems harsh and unforgiving. It is a reminder that while societal structures may often work against us, the connections we form with others can be a source of strength and transformation.
In conclusion, Moonlight is more than just a film; it is a deeply moving exploration of identity, resilience, and the human condition. It challenges us to confront our own biases and to embrace the full spectrum of human experience. For those of us who have struggled with identity and belonging, the film offers a powerful message of hope and affirmation. It encourages us to continue fighting for our rights and to remain true to ourselves, no matter how difficult the journey may be. I hope you also enjoyed the film.
All the best.
Best regards,
Wanqiao Li
Works Cited
McCluskey, A. T. “Close-Up: Moonlight. Barry Jenkins and Moonlight in Miami: Home Girls Respond,” Black Camera: An International Film Journal 14, no. 1: 307-312, doi: 10.2979/blackcamera.14.1.17.
Moonlight. (2016). Barry Jenkins.
Comments