The Lazarus Effect 2010
Distributed by Cinema Guild, 115 West 30th Street, Suite 800, New York, NY 10001; 212-685-6242
Produced by Spike Jonze, HBO
Directed by Lance Bangs
DVD, color, 30 min.
Sr. High - Adult
African Studies, Health Sciences, Ethics, Gender Studies, Women’s Studies, Anthropology, Sociology
Date Entered: 06/13/2011
Reviewed by Barb Bergman, Minnesota State University, MankatoThe Lazarus Effect focuses on one aspect of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa – treatment using antiretroviral (ARV) drugs. Through interviews and narrative, the film highlights a variety of people before and after beginning ARV drug therapy. The men, women, and children shown go from a skeletal near-death appearance to a seemingly miraculous recovery and a healthy body weight.
A simple, straight forward film, The Lazarus Effect tells its story effectively and clearly.
The Lazarus Effect was produced as part of the (RED) campaign to raise awareness of the impact of large-scale AIDS programs in sub-Saharan Africa and the positive effect of ARV medicines available.
Recommended for courses in the health and behavioral sciences.