Stephen Fry - HIV And Me Details

[Highly rated reviewer]

Educational, detailed, heartwarming and shocking

I hired this DVD more because of the fact that it was presented by Stephen Fry rather than that of the actual subject matter. I must say I came out the other side with a newfound, detailed education in HIV, and a feeling of grief, yet also of hope and utmost respect for those who suffer the effects of this horrible disease.

I thought Stephen interviewed a perfect mix of people from all ages, races, backgrounds and orientations, and he exhibited a poignance and compassion that effectively captured my heart.

I was particularly moved by the story of a teenage girl born with HIV, and the tribulations she's encountered with regard to her health, her upbringing, her personal life, and her courage in going public with her experiences. The girl exhibited a true example of human spirit remaining positive through a negative time, and I felt her story was the quintessence of what Stephen was trying to put forth - NOBODY is immune to HIV, but there is also a lifetime of hope in this day & age for those unlucky enough to contract the illness.

Be warned that there is quite a bit of overtly sexual commentary interspersed throughout the film, and there's one particular anecdote related by some students which I found to be particularly shocking. However it is often a careless and frivolous attitude towards sex that does lead to the contraction of the disease, so perhaps such graphic portrayals will help induce a sense of caution into those who watch it?

Overall I think the documentary is a highly worthwhile watch, and I really did get a sense that it will help overcome any prejudice and stigma associated with HIV.