Beauty in the Moonlight

Well, that was nuts. But that wonderful kind of nuts that you can’t believe really happened. And you rewind. And you rewind. And you rewind, just to make sure I really did. The universe does not give us too many second shots to make things right. And when it does they are very, very rarely this for of instant gratification Like, about a minute after instant. But “Moonlight” winning for Best Picture at the Oscars was right. Don’t get me wrong, I really enjoyed “La La Land.” I love the retro feel and vibrant colors. It was lovely. But “Moonlight,” well “Moonlight” was something else entirely. “Moonlight” was important.

A movie about growing up gay and black in America. A movie about the complexity of modern masculinity. A movie about love.

And the first LGBTQ movie to win a best picture Oscar. It has done what “Philadelphia,” “Brokeback Mountain,” “The Kids Are All Right,” “Carol” and more could not accomplish (and, in some cases weren’t even nominated for – still bitter for Carol Aird). And, no less significant, it is the first film with an all-black cast, and the first film with a black director to take home the honor.

“Moonlight” is the antithesis to our current political climate. A movie that lovingly explores growing up poor, black and gay. A movie that reinforces how essential it is to tell diverse stories. A movie that reminds us how important it is for us to see our lives reflected back at us. If we cannot find mirrors, how will be know what we look like – and be reassured that we are OK?

Now, more than ever, telling these kind of stories in essential. Representation matters. It always matters. Congratulations, “Moonlight.” Now, time for a gay ladies movie to do the same thing.

p.s. Yes, I am still pissed about “Carol” not even getting a best picture nomination. I will always be pissed about that.