9 Most Powerful LGBT+ Movie Scenes Ever

There is some pretty tough contention for the top spot in powerful moments from Moonlight, with Juan teaching little Chiron to swim being a very close second. In a way it sort of links to the scene we’re about to talk about, because the tenderness and kindness in which he is handled is something so rare in his life, something he searches for from that moment on.

Throughout his life, Chiron buries himself in order to perform the role society wants him to. After his mother blames his bullying on his walk as a kid (the implications being obvious), he moulds himself in the shape of the masculine archetype.

After Juan’s death, Chiron lacks a strong and compassionate father figure to encourage him to be exactly who he wants to be. Juan unapologetically told Chiron as a child that there was nothing wrong with being gay, although society was determined to convince him otherwise. I can’t write accurately about Black masculinity, Cody Charles speaks about it wonderfully here.

When Chiron finally ends up in Kevin’s apartment, both of them discussing their respective lives and vulnerabilities, Chiron is able to feel safe in being tender for the first time since he was a child. The relief is visible, and really beautiful.