This film really moved me. It is an intense journey but well worth it. It has a naturalism and realism that is rare to find. The story is simple but not easy. A woman, Bonnie, is raped one night walking home from a bar early in the film and spends the rest of the film trying to find a way to move forward with her life. The director and writer, Jessica Thompson, brings her characters to life in such a way that you really want to walk down this road with them. The drive of the film is not from any gimmicks or tricks, just a clear eyed appraisal of real people having real struggles. Stephanie Beatriz brings the lead role, Bonnie, to life in a courageous and moving performance, layered and rich. Many of the supporting actors also did great work. I also really connected with Conrad Ricamora, who plays her best friend. This story is one that would resonate at any time, but given this moment in our history where a dark history of sexual assault is finally getting to be acknowledged, it could not have come out at a better time.
Review of The Light of the Moon
