Film distributor A24, known for in-depth documentaries, exceptional lo-fi dramas, and witty comedies, has already amassed critical success this year with Green Room, The Lobster, and The Witch. With the upcoming film Moonlight—A24’s first in-house production, for which it partnered with Plan B Productions—the indie film gurus also have perhaps the best drama of 2016 on their hands.
Written and directed by Barry Jenkins, Moonlight showcases the life story of Chiron, a young black man living in ’80s-era Miami during the height of Ronald Reagan’s War on Drugs. Based on Tarell Alvin McCraney’s play In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue, Moonlight takes a three-part look at Chiron’s childhood and adult life as he explores his sexuality, fights through the modern societal pressures of masculinity, and overcomes faltering relationships with both his family and himself. The vivid and heart-wrenching film stars Trevante Rhodes as Chiron, along with an impressive supporting cast that includes Naomie Harris, André Holland, Mahershala Ali, Edson Jean, as well as singer Janelle Monáe, making her film debut.
The movie will be released in theaters on Oct. 21, but will be screened at the Toronto International Film Festival and New York Film Festival prior to that date. Check out the intense trailer below to see what all the excitement is about.
