Great Scene: “Moonlight”

The quiet, but intense final scene where Black confesses a secret to Kevin.

This 2016 film presents three stages in the life of the main character: his childhood, adolescence, and early adult life. It explores the difficulties he faces with his sexuality and identity, including the physical and emotional abuse he endures growing up.

Screenplay by Barry Jenkins, story by Tarell Alvin McCraney

Scene setup: After many years having not seen each other, Black and Kevin meet for dinner, then go to Kevin’s apartment. There Black recalls an intimate experience on the beach the two had when they were adolescents.

The movie version of the scene:

As is often the case, the filmmaker cut dialogue from the scene. Plus, another substantive change: Instead of intimating that Black and Kevin are going to engage in sexual activity, their moment together is simply Kevin stroking Black’s head … while Black leans into Kevin’s chest. More tender, less erotic.

This is an interaction scene … two individuals connecting on a deep emotional level … and it’s utterly captivating.

Beautiful movie.

For more articles in the Great Scene series, go here.