How to Survive a Plague Movie Review

Director: David France

UK Release Date: 8th November 2013

Running Time: 110 minutes 

Starring: Peter Staley, Larry Kramer, Iris Long, Mark Harrington, Jim Eigo

"How to Survive a Plague" is not initially what you expect from the title but as this documentary by David France advances you soon see why the chosen title is appropriate.  Prior to watching you could easily expect an apocalyptic film filled with zombies or something similar, however, what you find is the real life battle two AIDS activists groups faced from the onset of the disease and go on to challenge the FDA to get other AIDS drugs approved for use - AIDS is the plague. 

The documentary uses a collaboration of archival footage that has not yet been seen before to show the actions taken by Act Up and TAG (Treatment Action Group).  "How to Survive a Plague" gives the audience unparallelled access to heated meetings, actions, failures, mistakes and not forgetting the fundamental breakthroughs these two activist groups made during the 1980's and 1990's.

"How to Survive a Plague" is an excellent example of documentary making at its finest.  It is interesting and uses real archival footage, some of which has been captured by the activists themselves, and puts it together in an manner that explains, informs and impassions the audience. Emotional clips are authentic and offer the opportunity for the audience to connect to the story and documentary on another level. 

Other aspects away from the actual story of "How to Survive a Plague" also make it an enjoyable experience while watching.  It feels simple.  It has not been over complicated in anyway.  The accompanying soundtrack is perfect - it fits in and does not feel obtrusive to the story being told and is a great match, helping to shape the feel of the documentary.  Praise has to go to director, David France, for being able to bring together each detail which each have their own specific asset of being included in the film. 

This documentary is an excellent watch. It can be likened to "Fire in the Blood" (2013) a documentary also on the AIDS virus.  "How to Survive a Plague" is a powerful documentary that is good to watch.  The inspiring story is not let down at all from the way it is portrayed and all involved should be credited and praised for their efforts in getting this story onto the big screen.  

M+F Rating: 8/10

Reviewed by M+F Reviews.