A desperate teenager faces an impossible choice
Terrified of telling her parents that she’s pregnant as restrictions to abortion access worsen, a desperate teenager seeks the help of a reclusive neighbor who her parents warned her about. Mosquito Lady was created in reaction to the terrifying state of reproductive rights. This film features the manananggal, a vampiric, fetus-eating creature from Philippine folklore that endures excruciatingly painful werewolf-like transformations, to highlight the consequences of restricting access to abortion and sexual health education, and to use it as a metaphor for the horrors of losing bodily autonomy.
Impact in Action
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Mosquito Lady: A Catalyst for Change in Reproductive Rights
In a world where reproductive rights are under constant threat, Mosquito Lady serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for awareness and action. This compelling short film not only tells the haunting story of a desperate teenager but also sheds light on the grim realities faced by countless individuals due to restrictive abortion laws.
According to the Guttmacher Institute, nearly 25 million unsafe abortions occur annually in countries with stringent abortion laws, leading to approximately 22,800 deaths each year. Mosquito Lady utilizes the metaphor of the manananggal—a vampiric creature from Philippine folklore—to symbolize the pain of losing bodily autonomy. This narrative forces viewers to confront the consequences of inadequate access to reproductive health services, especially for low-income women, who are disproportionately affected; 97% of abortions in low-income regions are unsafe, compared to just 12% in wealthier areas.
The film not only raises awareness but also inspires action. Kristine Gerolaga, the creator, is working on a feature-length version, aiming to deepen the conversation around reproductive rights and mobilize communities. By highlighting these critical issues, Mosquito Lady empowers audiences to advocate for change, making it more than just a film—it’s a movement towards ensuring safe and equitable reproductive health for all.
Impact Goals
Kristine is working on a feature length film version of this film. Your support helps to get this to the finish line, as well as fund the impact partnership creation upon official release.
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