The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson (2017)

In the simmering heart of Greenwich Village, a beloved icon and Stonewall veteran, Marsha P. Johnson, tragically disappears into the shadows of oblivion shortly after Gay Pride in 1992. Her death forms a chilling addition to an escalating pattern of gay bashings, unsolved murders, and so-called "mysterious" deaths haunting the local gay community. The film weaves an intricate narrative through archival footage of Johnson; her vibrant presence at political rallies, her quiet moments in jeans and t-shirt, devoid of her usual flamboyant wigs, subtly commanding attention. Her death, hastily dismissed as a "suicide," unveils a disturbing disregard for the threats and dangers persistently stalking the most marginalized in the community. In response, the Village erupts in demonstrations, demanding justice and a comprehensive police investigation, their pleas falling on deaf ears. Decades later, the quest for answers is reignited by transgender crime advocate Victoria Cruz. Through her relentless pursuit of truth, the film uncovers new interviews with Johnson's family, friends, and fellow activists, their memories breathing life back into Johnson's legacy. The film also pays homage to other fearless warriors of the era, such as Sylvia Rivera, whose fiery "You Listen Up!" speech echoes through the annals of the Gay Liberation Rally. The lingering fear that stifles the voices of Johnson's contemporaries speaks volumes about the enduring challenges faced by the community. The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson is not just a tale of one life brutally extinguished, but a stark reminder of the unsolved mysteries and unaddressed hate crimes that still haunt the gay community. The film employs a poignant blend of archival footage and fresh interviews, letting the subjects narrate their own stories, their voices forming a haunting chorus that demands to be heard.

The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson is a documentary movie featuring Marsha P. Johnson and directed by David France.

The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson is currently streaming on Netflix and Netflix basic with Ads.