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Who We Become
By Sabrina McFarland,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Self-discovery stories from Filipino women; language, peril.
A Lot or a Little?
What you will—and won't—find in this movie.
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Who We Become
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What's the Story?
In WHO WE BECOME, a global pandemic emerges, but also brings about a greater level of self-awareness among three Filipino women who are a college graduate, community organizer, and social activist. The women also seek a stronger connection with their immediate and extended families, as well as other individuals inside and outside their immigrant community.
Is It Any Good?
Director PJ Raval offers a compelling visual compilation about the lives of three young Filipino women in Texas during the early months of the 2020 global pandemic. In Who We Become, Jenah Maravilla, a community organizer, Lauren Yap, a college student who graduates with honors, and Monica Silverio, a social activist, decide to self-document their experiences during this period.
The women, along with family and friends, address topics that range from their Filipino cultural identity to anti-Asian hate crimes and injustices against marginalized people. "I could definitely be doing more than I'm doing right now," says Yap, "and I know that others can as well." Who We Become may inspire teens and parents to talk about the subject of social inequality and also find ways in which to make society a better place for all.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the teamwork of the cast in Who We Become. How do they also demonstrate compassion, courage, and perseverance? Why are these important character strengths?
How would you describe the communication among the families? What do you think are the possible benefits and drawbacks of their discussions?
Tagalog is a major language spoken in the Philippines. In the film, the word "kapwa" is defined as "how we are the same, equal, and connected to our fellow human beings." Do you agree or disagree with its meaning and why?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: December 1, 2023
- Cast: Jenah Maravilla , Monica Silverio , Lauren Yap
- Director: PJ Raval
- Inclusion Information: Queer directors, Indian/South Asian directors, Female actors, Indian/South Asian actors, Bisexual actors, Queer writers, Indian/South Asian writers, Female writers, Asian writers
- Studio: Netflix
- Genre: Documentary
- Topics: Activism , Friendship , Great Girl Role Models , History
- Character Strengths: Communication , Compassion , Courage , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time: 72 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: November 30, 2023
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