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Living Proof: HIV and the Pursuit of Happiness
A Film by Kermit Cole
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In 1992, photographer Carolyn Jones agreed to a documentary film of her photo history project "Living Proof," portraits of people who have HIV or AIDS, but refuse to be crippled by their conditions.

After filming photo shoots and interviews with more than 30 participants, filmmaker Kermit Cole discovered a diverse community, straight and gay, female and male, young and old, filled with active and vibrant people who live contrarily to every dismal and oppressive image of the typical AIDS "victim" presented by the media. Their stories about overcoming obstacles, reevaluating priorities, and redefining life in the face of one's own mortality are inspiring testaments, offered with a generosity that will develop a new regard for people with AIDS as audiences learn from their hard earned lessons how we can all make the most of life. In this regard, LIVING PROOF is among the freshest and most important of "AIDS" films.

"*[Starred Review] Powerful!... People from all walks of life are drawn together by the subject of this project and, in speaking about their lives, come to support each other and reveal much about themselves as the photography sessions proceed. This unforgettable video destroys stereotypes, offers hope, and even stirs laughter."—Nancy McCray, Booklist

"***** [5 Stars - Must Have] Few viewers will remain unmoved throughout the many poignant moments he captures as his subjects share their fears and hopes, sorrows and joys. Highly recommended for all collections."—David Soltesz, Video Rating Guide for Libraries

"An amazing look at HIV positive people... If you don't believe there's such a thing as transcendent energy, see this film."—Jay Carr, Boston Globe

"This inspiring antidote to intolerance deserves the widest possible audience."—Interview

"LIVING PROOF isn't a drama. Nor is it really a tragedy. It's a simple study of hope in the face of adversity. And viewers will find it a comfort, if not a revelation."—Janet Maslin, New York Times

"A triumph!... An eye-opening documentary, LIVING PROOF puts an identifiably human face on a disease many still turn their backs on."—James Verniere, Boston Herald

"A must-see not only for the communities most afflicted by this illness, but for everyone. Especially, I might add, if you have any fears, stereotypes or undue paranoia about AIDS."—Michael Szymanski, New York Times Syndicate

"The need to portray positive images of those living with HIV/AIDS is more important than ever, not only for those of us that have to continue in our labor to end this epidemic, but also for those who are living with the virus. In our labor, we need the inspiration that comes from the courage an love of life that may persons living with HIV display on a daily basis. I applaud [LIVING PROOF's] efforts to communicate such a potent message."—Kristine M. Gebbie, National AIDS Policy Coordinator

"The people in this vibrant, life-affirming embrace of a movie speak of how they've accepted HIV-positive not as a death sentence but as a wake-up call to live with greater urgency and intensity than ever before. It's a call we all should heed."—Joe DeChick, Cincinnati Enquirer

Silver Apple Winner, 1995 National Educational Media Network Competition
  

72 minutes / color
Copyright Date: 1993
Sale: $150

Subject areas:
HIV/AIDS, Media Studies, Photography

Related Titles:
It's My Life: Zackie Achmat, a leading AIDS activist in South Africa, has refused to take anti-retroviral medicines until they are made available by the government in public hospitals and clinics.

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