Movie Director Barry Jenkins has not only created a movie that any audience member can connect with, but also a movie igniting great empathy for its characters. “Moonlight” is the story of an African American man named Chiron. The film depicts three pivotal and liminal stages in his life – childhood, adolescence, and adulthood – all while having to struggle with a mother addicted to crack-cocaine, growing up in impoverished area, and having to come to terms with his sexuality.

“Moonlight” is a crisp film about the struggles between every human who must each find their own path. The transition from each section of the movie is so well filmed, it seems like it is simply a snapshot of the character’s life.

The acting is incredibly realistic, even to the point that it feels like you are not watching a film, but are being allowed to watch the character’s life unravel before your eyes. A few performances truly stand out in an ensemble of talented actors, especially the father figure portrayed by actor Mahershala Ali, which has earned him an Academy Award, and each of the three actors who play the main character, Alex R. Hibbert (Little), Ashton Sanders (Chiron), and Trevante Rhodes (Black).

Each of the characters’ motivations and personalities are developed until they are all clashed against each other into an emotional climax of the third chapter of the film, which was the most interesting chapter. The cinematography is clear, clean, and fresh. Each shot propels the audience to wonder what will happen next.

From the moments of sadness to those of intense confrontation, “Moonlight” is a movie that will inspire and push the audience to draw conclusions about their own life. The film deserves every nomination and award it received. If you are into emotional dramas, then this movie is for you.