76
Metascore
9 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 83IndieWireDavid EhrlichIndieWireDavid EhrlichThe Light of the Moon is a lucid, clinical, and wholly necessary drama about life after rape, and the while the film is far more watchable than it might sound (thanks in large part to Stephanie Beatriz’s rich and involving lead performance), viewers should know what’s in store for them.
- 80VarietyAndrew BarkerVarietyAndrew Barker[ Jessica M. Thompson’s ] simply-structured film is harrowingly effective in its streamlined, low-frills way: sensitive without ever being sanctimonious, brutally frank without ever lapsing into exploitation.
- 80Village VoiceTatiana CraineVillage VoiceTatiana CraineThe frank ways in which Thompson and Beatriz channel Bonnie make it clear that there’s a lot of respect for this complex character navigating life-altering trauma.
- 80The New York TimesTeo BugbeeThe New York TimesTeo BugbeeAs a resource for those looking to understand the process of recovery, it’s hard to imagine a more comprehensive or sympathetic look at the challenge of surviving.
- 80Los Angeles TimesSheri LindenLos Angeles TimesSheri LindenThe film's concerns are profoundly therapeutic, but it nimbly avoids every therapy-drama cliché.
- 75RogerEbert.comSheila O'MalleyRogerEbert.comSheila O'MalleyA nuanced and sensitive exploration of the many ways rape affects a person's life.
- 70The Hollywood ReporterLeslie FelperinThe Hollywood ReporterLeslie FelperinDespite the strain of what they go through together, Beatriz and Stahl-David have a combustible chemistry together that adds credibility and Thompson clearly has a knack with actors, coaxing sharp, believable performances from all involved — even from actors with relatively small roles.
- 63Movie NationRoger MooreMovie NationRoger MooreIt’s not a great film, but Beatriz grows in stature as Bonnie searches for firmer footing. She and Stahl create a relationship that feels lived-in and fragile.