In a celebration of the trans community of Puerto Rico, MALA MALA captures the triumphant highs and devastating lows in the fight for personal and community acceptance in the oldest colony in the world. Told through intimate moments, performances, friendships, and the activism of trans-identifying people, drag queens, and others who defy gender norms in Puerto Rico. Featuring Ivana, an activist fighting for anti-discrimination bill on the island; Soraya, an older gender-affirming surgery pioneer; Sandy, a sex worker confronting the impact of aging on her source of income; and Samantha and Paxx, both of whom struggle with the quality of medical resources available to assist in their transitions, MALA MALA sensitively and compassionately affirms that the quest to find oneself can be both difficult and beautiful. Through riveting cinematography that encapsulates the vivacious personalities of the protagonists, as well as their frequently dark personal experiences, the film dynamically presents the passion and hardships reflective of this human experience.

Winner: Tribeca Film Festival, Audience Award, 2014 Out 100, Out Magazine, 2015 Nominee: GLAAD Outstanding Doc, 2016

“Their movie is a landmark of real philosophical, existential, and ontological inquiry. It’s delicately made and deeply considered… This is one of the richest, most emotionally complicated portraits of identity I’ve ever seen.” — Wesley Morris, Grantland

Film runtime: 87 minutes Content warning: Depression, Poverty, Nudity, Language

BrickFlix, a periodic screening & performance series was created by Filmmaker/Two Boots owner Phil Hartman in January 2020. It brings together independent filmmakers, live performance, and food to create a vibrant art loving community. It is currently programmed by Toney Brown (Mules, @toneymovies). Follow us @brickflixmovies.

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