In Liberty City, Miami, we encounter Chiron, a young boy who is often referred to as “Little.” At the outset, he finds himself in a precarious situation, cornered by a gang of bullies until Juan (Mahershala Ali), a Cuban drug dealer, comes to his rescue. Though initially hesitant to trust Juan, Chiron is drawn in by his friendly demeanor. Juan invites him to share a meal and offers a safe place to stay the night with him and his kind-hearted girlfriend Teresa (Janelle Monáe). The next day, he reluctantly returns Chiron to his troubled home, where he lives with his abusive mother Paula (Naomie Harris).

As Chiron navigates his tumultuous relationship with Paula, who battles addiction, Juan becomes a pivotal figure in his life. He teaches Chiron not only how to swim but also encourages him to carve his own path. Juan reflects on the beauty of African American boys who seem to transform under the moonlight, telling Chiron an old woman’s observation that they “look blue.” Their bond strengthens, even as Chiron grapples with his identity and the harsh realities of his existence.

The tension escalates when Juan witnesses Paula using drugs, leading to a confrontation that reveals the cycles of addiction and denial in Chiron’s life. A heartbreaking moment occurs when Chiron, questioning his identity, learns from Juan that “a faggot” is merely a term used to demean gay individuals, reinforcing the message that he shouldn’t let others hurt him for who he is.

As Chiron grows into his teenage years, he adopts the name “Chiron,” facing bullying from classmates like Terrel. Despite the torment, his connection to Teresa remains a lifeline, contrasting with his deteriorating relationship with Paula, who manipulates him for cash. A pivotal night occurs at the beach, where he shares an intimate moment with Kevin. Their relationship complicates further after Kevin succumbs to peer pressure, betraying Chiron in front of their classmates, leading to a devastating physical confrontation.

Transitioning into adulthood, Chiron assumes the identity of “Black,” portrayed by Trevante Rhodes. Now living in Atlanta as a dealer, he is haunted by the memories of his past and his complex relationship with Paula, who reaches out for forgiveness. The plot takes a hopeful turn when Kevin, now working in a diner, reaches out to Chiron, attempting to mend their broken bond. During their heartfelt reunion, Chiron acknowledges the absence of intimacy since their encounter as teenagers, while memories of his younger self standing alone by the ocean resurface. This journey through identity, pain, and redemption is as multifaceted as the characters themselves, ultimately reminding us of the pursuit of love and acceptance in a world fraught with challenges.