We Were Here 2011
Distributed by New Yorker Films, 220 East 23rd Street, Suite 409, New York, New York 10010; 212-645-4600
Produced by David Weissman
Directed by David Weissman
DVD , color, 90 min.
College
Human Rights, Death and Dying, Gay and Lesbian Studies, Gender Studies, Women’s Studies, Social Sciences
Date Entered: 12/07/2011
ALA Notable: yes
Reviewed by Katherine Bertel, University at Buffalo, State University of New York
“Watch out guys, there’s something out there”
We Were Here retells the devastating arrival and impact of the AIDS epidemic in the close-knit gay community of San Francisco in the 1980’s. The film explores the effects of the disease on the community and its compassionate and inspiring response.
We Were Here provides a detailed and cathartic account from five individuals who survived this catastrophic epidemic. These painful accounts are provided from the point of view of a caregiver, an activist, a nurse, an HIV-positive survivor, and friends and lovers of those who fell ill. AIDS hit the San Francisco community fast and hard. Not only did the gay community have to deal with the overwhelming loss of loved ones, they also faced harsh stigmatization and attacks on their civil rights. We Were Here exposes the complex political and social issues of the time, as well as the emotional burden and role of women in fighting for and caring for the sick.
Director David Weissman thoughtfully exhibits these stories in a way that is devastating, heartwarming, and at times uplifting. Weissman’s straightforward approach and use of people who experienced this tragedy, rather than relying on the narration of experts in the field, adds a distinctive point of view. Interviews and archival images provide a deeply personal account of the courageous and altruistic community response to an unimaginable catastrophe. In addition to showing the devastating effects of the AIDS disease on human life. This film is highly informative and revealing. It would be a welcomed addition to any class in human rights, death and dying, gay and lesbian studies, gender studies, women’s studies, or the social sciences.
Highly Recommended