We're proud to present an exclusive clip from 25 to Life, a documentary that will enjoy its world premiere at the American Black Film Festival in New York City on Sunday, June 22.
Directed by Mike L. Brown, a protégé of Spike Lee, the film provides a new perspective on individuals living with the HIV virus. The official synopsis sums it up:
The film follows William Brawner, a Philadelphia man who contracted the HIV/AIDS virus from a blood transfusion as a child. Will's young mother, grandmother and aunt kept his HIV status a guarded secret, fearing its stigma, and provided him with a fun-loving childhood to distract him from his illness. As he approached adulthood, he suppressed the reality of his HIV status, stopped taking his medications, and turned to promiscuity and partying.After a sobering talk with his doctor, Will surprised everyone when he disclosed his HIV-status in a very public way. Will's revelations provoked an eruption of emotions from family, ex-girlfriends, friends, and strangers alike. In 25 to Life, he confronts these questions head-on.
The American Black Film Festival kicks off tonight with a screening of Think Like a Man Too and concludes on Sunday with the world premiere of Spike Lee's Da Sweet Blood of Jesus.
Watch the 25 to Life clip below.