Every once in a while a film comes out that we're all told we must see. As people, we have an innate drive to conform to our societies to ensure we don't ostracize ourselves. In fact, our survival once hinged on our ability to adapt to our communities.
Whether or not telling moviegoers they must see this film is rooted in a fear of missing out, some stories are broader in scope. They are there to remind us we are human and that we're all connected through the human condition. More importantly, stories tell us we're not alone in our fears, ambitions, and feelings. I believe we go to the theater to see a piece of ourselves.
Last night, I strolled past an old movie theater preparing for its 100 year anniversary. It was the same theater my father once took me to see, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
On this particular evening the bright marquee read, Moonlight. Moonlight is a coming-of-age story dealing with the dysfunctional home life of a young man during the "War on Drugs" in 1980s Miami. As of late, the film has been much lauded receiving a great deal of critical acclaim. And rightfully so in my book.
Yet, what struck me even more than the film was something one if its stars said during a Q & A. Janelle Monae, who is known more for her achievements as a recording artist, makes her Hollywood debut in a beautifully authentic and earnest performance. She reminded me that storytellers have the capacity to do remarkable things. Even if we don't realize it.
"I know and I hope and pray that some young boy struggling with his sexual identity, or some girl struggling with her sexual identity, will watch it — and maybe when they came in felt alone, but when they leave they feel less alone. They feel like they see themselves, like their story is highlighted and they’re not an outcast or “the other” anymore."
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