How to Survive a Plague
dir. David France · 2012
Collective action and determination can transform despair into hope and lead to significant change in the face of adversity.
"How to Survive a Plague" is a powerful testament to the indomitable spirit of activism, chronicling how grassroots movements transformed the AIDS crisis from a death sentence into a manageable condition. Through visceral archival footage and personal narratives, it inspires viewers to reflect on the power of community and the relentless pursuit of justice.
A story of two coalitions – ACT UP and TAG (Treatment Action Group) – whose activism and innovation turned AIDS from a death sentence into a manageable condition. Despite having no scientific training, these self-made activists infiltrated the pharmaceutical industry and helped identify promising new drugs, moving them from experimental trials to patients in record time.
Talking points
- the role of activism in healthcare
- the impact of community on personal loss
- ethical implications of drug development
- the evolution of LGBTQ+ rights
