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Film review: ‘Moonlight’ and Social Stratification

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Today, I'm happy to give my opinions on 'Moonlight,' a film that won an Oscar in 2017. This film delves deeply into real-life topics such as class, identity, and the quest to discover one's place in the world.

 

Moonlight

'Moonlight' tells Chiron's life in three parts: as a child, a teenager, and an adult. We watch him struggling with bullying, his mother's addiction, and his own sexual identity issues. It shows just how hard life can be when you're growing up in a place that doesn't give you many chances.

 

Sociology Perspective

From a sociological perspective, 'Moonlight' wonderfully captures the concept of social stratification and mobility. Chiron's life is a textbook example of how societal institutions and class systems shape individual outcomes. The film depicts the restrictions imposed by one's social context, with Chiron's relationships with characters like as Juan, a heroin dealer who becomes a father figure, highlighting the complicated reality of social support systems in impoverished communities. This association supports the theory of social capital, which states that individuals in disenfranchised communities create bonds that, while providing emotional and social support, may also embed them deeper into systemic cycles of poverty and crime.

 

Political-economic Angle

On the political-economic front, 'Moonlight' throws light on the long-standing disparities that are exacerbated by structural failures and a lack of supportive social policies. The film's setting—a town dealing with poverty, drug addiction, and limited access to opportunities—is a harsh reminder of how political and economic forces impact people's lives. The story of Chiron's life is a strong commentary on the role of government and policy in reducing or increasing socioeconomic inequality. It reinforces the idea that market processes alone are insufficient to address long-standing class issues. Instead, there is an urgent need for egalitarian social policies and aggressive government engagement to redistribute assets and opportunities. This includes investing in education, providing employment support, enhancing social services, and ensuring housing rights. 'Moonlight' not only highlights the impact of socio-economic policies on individual conditions but also calls for greater attention and support for marginalized communities.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, 'Moonlight' is more than a film; it's a profound exploration of class inequality within the fabric of society. It asks us to look beyond individual tales and consider the systemic factors that shape the boundaries of identity and opportunity.

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