9 Movies on the LGBTQ+ Community in the Philippines

It's no secret that important stories need to be shared—and these narratives are just a few examples on why that is

As a minority group, it's become integral for the LGBTQ+ community to receive representation in art and its many forms. Today, we've compiled some of the best films to watch, which give us glimpses of some of the important narratives that the community faces:

PJ Raval's "Call Her Ganda" (2018)

The infamous murder of Filipino transwoman, Jennifer Laude, is given clearer context in PJ Raval's Call Her Ganda. Nicknamed just that (ganda or "beautiful"), Laude was murdered by a United States Marine in 2014. What followed was a political uprising of people seeking justice for a Filipina and a transwoman. In the film, Virgie Suarez, Meredith Talusan, and Jennifer's mother, Julita Laude, guide viewers through various perspectives of the woman's life and what her death eventually sparked.

J E Tiglao's "Metamorphosis" (2019)

There's a gradual rise in the representation of people in the LGBTQ+ community in local films. J E Tiglao's film, Metamorphosis explores the unique circumstances of someone who is intersex. Starring Gold Azeron as the film's protagonist Adam, the film explores the conditions and inner thoughts of someone who was raised as a boy but soon discovers that he is, in fact, born with two genitals. A love story and also one of self-discovery, Metamorphosis is a must-see that can't be missed.

Sigrid Andrea Bernardo's "Ang Huling Cha-Cha ni Anita" (2013)

A sweet story that perfectly captures those confusing growing-up years, Ang Huling Cha-cha ni Anita tells the story of a young girl who falls into a deep infatuation with an older woman. Years later, her girlhood crush bears fruition as the town celebrates the feast of Santa Clara. Set amid rural Bulacan, Ang Huling Cha-cha ni Anita is a nostalgic Filipino film that's worth a watch.

Charliebebs Gohetia's "I Love You. Thank You." (2015)

A sweet love story amid the backdrop of Cambodia, I Love You. Thank You. is a 2015 film that stars Joross Gamboa, Prince Stefan, Ae Pattawan and CJ Reyes. It's a sweet film that focuses on a gay couple that meets each other while on vacation. Together they explore what love means and face the difficult emotions that they tried to escape from back in Manila. The film has been nominated for numerous awards and is a fan favourite for many reasons you'll realise once you view the film.

Jun Lana's "Kalel, 15" (2019)

Several difficult themes are discussed in Jun Luna's Kalel, 15, a film that revolves around a young boy recently diagnosed with HIV. Tackling the immense stigma of the illness in our country, the film also explores the protagonist's dysfunctional family and circumstances and the troubling ways Filipino youth become careless regarding sexuality.

Rod Singh's "Mamu; and a Mother Too" (2018)

A mother-daughter story at heart, Mamu; and a Mother Too tells the story of a transgender sex worker who must assume the role of mum to her orphaned niece, who is also a transwoman. Though it is a comedy-drama, the film explores taboo topics such as sex work and challenges the traditional understanding of what or who a mother must be.

Alvin Yapan's "Sayaw ng Dalawang Kaliwang Paa" (2011)

A romantic movie with dance at its core, Sayaw ng Dalawang Kaliwang Paa stars Paulo Avelino and Rocco Nacino as students of the beautiful Karen (Jean Garcia). All three share a love-hate relationship: Marlon (Avelino) is seemingly infatuated with Karen and hopes to impress her with his dance skills. As such, his literature classmate, Dennis (Nacino), offers to help Marlon with dance. Throughout their budding friendship, viewers question the medley of feelings each character may have for the other. Confusing yet beautiful, Sayaw ng Dalawang Kaliwang Paa is a multi-awarded film that must not be missed.

Dolly Dulu's "The Boy Foretold by the Stars" (2020)

A coming-of-age film about love and friendship, The Boy Foretold by the Stars challenges the status quo as two male schoolmates develop an intimate relationship with each other. Through the help of a fortune teller, Luke and Dominic find each other at a religious retreat and forge a friendship that is confusing and rife with tension. Though they enjoy each other's company, the expectations of their schoolmates and friends begin to take a toll; touted as a gay romance to root for, The Boy Foretold by the Stars is a sweet love story that also mirrors the common struggles of those who do not conform to society's expectations.

Samantha Lee's "Billie and Emma" (2018)

A coming-of-age story set in the '90s, Billie and Emma explores the complex situations that Emma must face. She juggles the confusing feelings she has for her new classmate, Billie, alongside a surprise pregnancy brought on by her relationship with her boyfriend. It is directed by Samantha Lee, a female director who has been actively seeking to represent the LGBTQ+ community more in her films. This is her second film brought to life.

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