Skip to main content

Deep Dive: Call Her Ganda (2018)

Film Lens

Call Her Ganda
In 'Call Her Ganda', the murder of Jennifer Laude, a Filipina trans woman, by U.S. Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton serves as a catalyst for political activism in the Philippines. The documentary follows three women: an activist attorney, a transgender journalist, and Jennifer's mother, who come together to seek justice for Jennifer. Their efforts highlight the complexities surrounding her death and the societal issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community in the Philippines. The film also addresses the broader context of U.S. imperialism in the Philippines, illustrating how Jennifer's case is intertwined with historical and contemporary power dynamics. As the women navigate the legal system and confront societal prejudices, the documentary presents a narrative that intertwines personal loss with a larger fight for justice and equality.

Why Watch

  • Meet Jennifer Laude's mother and her fight for justice.
  • Follow the activism of attorney Virginia Lacsa Suarez.
  • See the impact of U.S. military presence in the Philippines.

Did You Know

Jennifer Laude was murdered by U.S. Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton in 2014.
The documentary features three key figures: an attorney, a journalist, and Jennifer's mother.
The film runs for 93 minutes and was released in 2018.
The production involved collaboration between the Philippines and the United States.

Perfect For

LGBTQ+ rightsU.S. imperialismFilipino history