“Mamu; And a Mother Too” (2018)
November 15, 2025
Watch movie:
*Hosted on partner site
“Mamu; And a Mother Too” (2018) is a heartfelt Filipino dramedy that explores queer identity, family, and survival with warmth, humor, and emotional depth. The film centers on Mamu, a middle-aged transgender sex worker whose life takes an unexpected turn when she becomes the guardian of her teenage nephew, Bona — a shy, vulnerable boy who is also questioning his sexuality.
What makes Mamu; And a Mother Too stand out is its balance of realism and tenderness. It portrays the struggles of queer individuals in the Philippines — poverty, discrimination, and the fight for dignity — without losing its sense of joy and humanity. Mamu’s journey from hustler to unexpected mother figure is both funny and touching, and the chemistry between her and Bona is beautifully genuine.
The film’s strength lies in its honesty. It doesn’t romanticize the difficulties of LGBTQ+ life, yet it shows how love, chosen family, and compassion can transform even the harshest circumstances.
A small film with a big heart, Mamu; And a Mother Too is both moving and uplifting — a celebration of queer resilience and unconventional family.