The Light of the Moon 2017

Bonnie, portrayed by Stephanie Beatriz, is a dedicated architect flourishing in Bushwick, Brooklyn. However, her life takes a dramatic turn when her boyfriend, Matt, played by Michael Stahl-David, cancels their evening plans due to a last-minute work obligation. In search of distraction, Bonnie heads out with colleagues for a night at the bar, where she indulges in drinks for a fleeting escape from reality. But the carefree atmosphere quickly dissipates as she encounters unwelcome advances on the dance floor. Trying to regain her poise, she opts to walk home alone, headphones in, attempting to silence the chaos around her.

Unfortunately, her night unravels further when a hooded attacker emerges from the shadows and brutally assaults Bonnie in a dark alley. This shocking violation shatters her sense of safety and leaves her grappling with emotional and physical repercussions. Upon regaining consciousness, Bonnie’s initial reaction is to gather the remnants of her trauma: evidence of the event—a bag filled with used tissues and undergarments—symbolizing her wounded spirit.

Returning home, she finds Matt there, but she downplays the severity of the assault, presenting it to him as a simple mugging. Her colleagues, unaware of the full implications of her trauma, express their admiration for what they perceive as her bravery. At the same time, her boss acknowledges the importance of projects and, wanting to support her, reschedules meetings to afford Bonnie some healing time.

As Bonnie navigates this challenging recovery, she clings to her work for comfort. Though her coworkers extend kindness and support, the shadows of her assault linger. Her boss ultimately recognizes that Bonnie is not fully present and reassures her by moving her to a smaller client project. This adjustment signifies the profound impact the incident has had on her, making Bonnie question if she can ever regain her former sense of invincibility.

In a haunting development, Bonnie is called to the police station to observe a lineup—and realizes that she cannot identify her assailant, as his face remains concealed in her memory. Outside, she meets another victim who offers her comfort, yet Bonnie instinctively distances herself from the emotions of others, overwhelmed by her pain. A sobering conversation with a local prosecutor reveals that DNA evidence could play a crucial role in apprehending her attacker, although Bonnie fears that the intoxication from that night might jeopardize her credibility in court.

As she struggles with these harsh realities, Bonnie attempts to have a fun night with her colleagues again but grows defensive when they insist on seeing her home. Unsettled, she suspects that Matt prompted their concern, which causes friction. Despite her hesitations, Bonnie allows them to accompany her back, only to feel increasingly like a burden. Seeking to escape the weight of her situation, she makes the decision to temporarily move in with Jack, portrayed by Conrad Ricamora), much to Matt’s dismay.

Once settled in Jack’s apartment, Bonnie receives a heartbreaking call from the prosecutor—the DNA evidence does not match any known assailants, nor does it connect to the other victim. This revelation devastates her, and she confides in Jack, who offers her solace during this emotional turmoil.

Later that night, Bonnie’s vulnerability resurfaces when she spots a woman wearing headphones, triggering her protective instincts. In a moment of unsettling confrontation, she chastises the stranger for her carelessness, only to be dismissed and branded as irrational. This encounter leaves Bonnie feeling even more shattered, and she rushes back to Jack’s, breaking down in his supportive embrace.

Eventually, Bonnie finds the courage to open up to her mother about her assault with Jack by her side. This marks a significant turning point for Bonnie, igniting a newfound resilience within her as she embarks on the arduous journey of reclaiming her life. With determination, she gradually reenters group therapy and finds her way back to Matt, signifying a hopeful step toward healing and recovery.