“Moonlight,” directed by Barry Jenkins, is a poignant and visually stunning exploration of identity, sexuality, and personal growth. The film follows the life of Chiron, a young black man, as he navigates the challenges of growing up in a rough Miami neighborhood. Told in three distinct acts—childhood, adolescence, and adulthood—”Moonlight” beautifully captures the struggle for self-acceptance amidst external and internal conflicts.
1. Symbolism
Symbolism is used extensively in Moonlight to add depth and layers of meaning to the narrative .
Movie Scene Device Example Little swimming with Juan The ocean symbolizes freedom and baptism. Chiron staring at the moonlight The moonlight represents self-realization and clarity.
2. Metaphor
Metaphors enrich the dialogue and visual imagery in Moonlight, enhancing the thematic depth.
Movie Scene Device Example Juan tells Little about the moonlight “In moonlight, black boys look blue,” a metaphor for identity and perception. Chiron’s final confrontation with Kevin Chiron compares his emotional state to “always being ready to fight.”
3. Foreshadowing
Foreshadowing is subtly used to hint at future events, building anticipation and tension.
Movie Scene Device Example Juan teaching Little to swim Foreshadows Chiron’s eventual search for freedom and identity. Kevin and Chiron’s beach scene Foreshadows the intimate connection they will revisit later in life.
4. Imagery
Vivid imagery in Moonlight helps to create an immersive experience, allowing viewers to feel the emotions and atmosphere .
Movie Scene Device Example The opening shot of the Miami neighborhood Rich visual details of the setting establish the socio-economic backdrop. The beach scene at night The moonlit beach creates a serene yet charged atmosphere .
5. Juxtaposition
Juxtaposition in Moonlight highlights contrasting elements, emphasizing differences and conflicts.
Movie Scene Device Example Chiron’s life with his mother vs. with Juan Contrasts between neglect and care. Adult Chiron vs. his teenage self The physical and emotional transformation.
6. Irony
Irony in Moonlight is used to highlight the complexities and contradictions in characters’ lives.
Movie Scene Device Example Juan, a drug dealer, becomes a father figure Ironic contrast between his profession and his nurturing role. Paula’s demand for money for drugs Ironic given her neglect of Chiron.
7. Motif
Motifs in Moonlight recur to reinforce the film’s central themes and emotional tones.
Movie Scene Device Example Water Seen in swimming scenes, symbolizing rebirth and cleansing. The color blue Recurs in various forms, symbolizing tranquility and sadness.
8. Allusion
Allusions in Moonlight subtly reference cultural and historical contexts, adding layers of meaning.
Movie Scene Device Example Juan’s Cuban heritage Alludes to the immigrant experience and cultural identity. Paula calling Chiron “soft” Alludes to societal expectations of masculinity.
9. Flashback
Flashbacks provide background information and emotional context for the characters.
Movie Scene Device Example Chiron’s memories of Juan Flashbacks reveal the deep impact Juan had on his life. Chiron recalling the beach scene with Kevin Provides emotional context for his actions and feelings.
10. Dialogue
Dialogue in Moonlight is rich and layered, often revealing deeper truths and emotions.
Movie Scene Device Example Juan’s conversation with Little about identity “At some point, you gotta decide for yourself who you gonna be.” Kevin’s and Chiron’s reunion Their exchange reveals unresolved feelings and past wounds.
Chiron
Literary Device Explanation Symbolism Chiron’s different names (Little, Chiron, Black) symbolize his evolving identity. Imagery Visual and sensory descriptions illustrate his internal and external struggles.
Juan
Literary Device Explanation Irony A drug dealer who becomes a compassionate mentor to Chiron. Metaphor Juan’s swimming lessons are a metaphor for navigating life’s difficulties.
Paula
Literary Device Explanation Juxtaposition Her role as a mother versus her destructive behavior highlights internal conflict . Symbolism Her addiction symbolizes the systemic issues plaguing the community.
Kevin
Literary Device Explanation Motif Kevin’s recurring presence symbolizes a constant in Chiron’s life. Imagery The beach scenes with Kevin are depicted with vivid, romantic imagery .
Teresa
Literary Device Explanation Juxtaposition Her nurturing nature contrasts with Paula’s neglect. Symbolism Represents a motherly figure providing unconditional love and support.
Identity
Device Explanation Motif The use of names and identity shifts highlight Chiron’s struggle with self-discovery. Symbolism Mirrors and reflections symbolize Chiron’s search for his true self.
Isolation
Device Explanation Imagery Descriptions of Chiron’s loneliness and isolation throughout the film. Irony Chiron’s silence in a world full of noise and chaos.
Masculinity
Device Explanation Juxtaposition Chiron’s gentle nature versus societal expectations of toughness. Metaphor Physical confrontations symbolize internal battles with identity and masculinity.
Love and Connection
Device Explanation Imagery Sensory descriptions of intimate moments between characters. Motif Recurring scenes of tenderness amidst adversity.
Literary Device Technique Explanation Symbolism Lighting Use of moonlight and shadows to symbolize clarity and obscurity. Imagery Cinematography Vivid visual descriptions captured through camera angles and movement. Irony Sound Design Contrasting soundscapes to highlight internal and external conflicts. Motif Editing Recurring visual motifs and cross-cutting to emphasize themes of identity.
Chiron’s Swimming Lesson with Juan
Breakdown : This scene utilizes symbolism (water as baptism), imagery (clear, blue ocean), and sound (calming waves) to depict Chiron’s transformative experience.
VIDEO
Beach Scene with Kevin
Link to Scene Breakdown : Juxtaposition (tenderness vs. violence), imagery (moonlit beach), and sound (whispers, waves) create an intimate, pivotal moment in Chiron’s life.
Final Diner Scene
Link to Scene Breakdown : Symbolism (Kevin’s smile), motif (return to connection), and sound (ambient diner noises) highlight themes of reconciliation and hope.
Test your understanding of the literary devices used in “Moonlight” with this interactive quiz! 🎬✨
Quiz :
What does the moonlight symbolize in the film?
A) Happiness
B) Clarity and self-revelation
C) Danger
How does the film use the motif of names?
A) To confuse the audience
B) To highlight Chiron’s evolving identity
C) To show different characters’ perspectives
What does water symbolize in Chiron’s swimming lessons with Juan?
A) Danger
B) Baptism and rebirth
C) Fun
Answers :
B
B
B
