XVII International AIDS Conference in Mexico City. Jeffrey Sturchio, Vice President of Merck & Co, talks about the development of protease inhibitors in 1996 and the relationship between the activists and the drug industry.

XVII International AIDS Conference in Mexico City. Jeffrey Sturchio, Vice President of Merck & Co, talks about the development of protease inhibitors in 1996 and the relationship between the activists and the drug industry.

This film tells the US story of the AIDS epidemic starting in the early 1980's. Scientists and activists, both pioneers and youths of today, talk about research, prevention, treatment and care. They also discuss stigma, homophobia and poverty as closely related to HIV and AIDS.

The primary focus of this documentary is on the history of how the AIDS epidemic started in San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York in 1981. Many different stories are told about people affected or surrounded by HIV and AIDS in the early years of the epidemic.

Anthony Fauci is interviewed about the progression from HIV to AIDS. He talks about HIV long-term survivors and different aspects of non-progression to AIDS. He also reflects on the future for antiretroviral drugs and HIV vaccines.