A Girl Like Me: The Gwen Araujo Story (TV 2006)The true story of Gwen Araujo, a young transgendered woman who was brutally murdered by four men in 2002. Director:Agnieszka HollandWriter:Shelley Evans |
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A Girl Like Me: The Gwen Araujo Story (TV 2006)The true story of Gwen Araujo, a young transgendered woman who was brutally murdered by four men in 2002. Director:Agnieszka HollandWriter:Shelley Evans |
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| Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
| Mercedes Ruehl | ... |
Sylvia Guerrero
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| JD Pardo | ... |
Eddie /
Gwen Araujo
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| Lupe Ontiveros | ... |
Mami
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| Leela Savasta | ... |
Chita Araujo
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| Henry Darrow | ... |
Papi
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| Corey Stoll | ... |
Joey Marino
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| Avan Jogia | ... |
Danny Araujo
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Jacqueline Samuda | ... |
Angie
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| Zak Santiago | ... |
Carlos guerrero
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| Jay Brazeau |
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Hrothgar Mathews |
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| Marilyn Norry | ... |
Dr. Martin
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| Tegan Moss | ... |
Lisa
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Michael Dillman | ... |
Eddie at age 7
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| Nicole Muñoz | ... |
Chita - Age 10
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Based on a true story. As a young boy, Eddie Araujo always felt different somehow. She started putting on her mom's makeup and wearing her mom's clothes, which her mom found odd. By the time she entered her teen years, Eddie could no longer hide the fact that she was a lot different, that she was meant to be female and not male. When she finally accepted it and with her mom's eventual support, Eddie changed her name to Gwen and started to live life as female until a tragic night changed everything. Written by r2k443
I read about the tragic murder of Gwen Araujo in the news a few years ago when it occurred, and I never imagined a telefilm would be made about her life -- much less helmed by Lifetime.
Unfortunately, this film seems like it was done in a hurry and we never really get to connect with Gwen the way we'd like to. J.D. Pardo is effective in his performance, as is Mercedes Ruehl, but this story required a bit more care in the way it was handled.
One thing that did however move me was Gwen's mother loyalty to her daughter, and how willing she was to accept and understand her. Being gay and Latino is difficult enough (I confess from experience), but I can't imagine how much more complicated it must be for people like Gwen.
You can't expect much from a made-for-television movie, and I didn't expect a lot from this one so I can't really say I was disappointed.
I'd like to see a feature film based on Gwen's life someday. Maybe it would be able to capture her essence in the way she deserves.