The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson
Documentary LGBTQIA+
Martha P. Johnson was one of the founding activists for transgender rights, and this documentary pursues a cold case investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death in 1992.
Part whodunit and part recent social history lesson, this documentary has a big brief; it meanders a bit while trying to uncover facts as well as lending context to a life lost. Although the archival footage is grainy, the characters interviewed are colourful, and their anecdotes talk to a little known history. It adds up to a fascinating view into the struggles of one the most marginalised groups in society. Born to be alive.
Anne MurphyMIFF 2017
105 mins