
"Call Me Alma" follows the story of Alma, a high-end bar girl who embraces prostitution as her chosen profession and pathway to achieving her dreams and happiness. She caters to affluent clients, including a wealthy lawyer nicknamed Tiger Joe and a bank executive called Kabayo, while also receiving attention from a devoted student. Her carefully constructed life is shaken when Sheila, an aging street prostitute, claims to be her mother and reveals a painful past involving abandonment and hidden family secrets. This revelation forces Alma to confront her origins and the harsh realities of their intertwined lives.
The film delves into themes of identity, survival, and the complex dynamics of mother-daughter relationships amidst the backdrop of societal marginalization. It highlights the struggles faced by women who are often victims of poverty and exploitation, exposing the vulnerabilities and strength that define them. The narrative challenges viewers to empathize with Alma and Sheila, understanding their choices within a context shaped by desperation, love, and resilience.
Upon its release, "Call Me Alma" received critical acclaim for its raw and honest portrayal of marginalized women, sparking conversations about the nuances of sex work and familial bonds in challenging circumstances. It has left a lasting impact on pop culture by opening a window into a rarely discussed facet of society, inspiring debates on empowerment and the social structures that influence personal destiny.