Opening session of the 4th South African AIDS Conference in Durban in 2009. Professor Linda Gail Bekker from University of Cape Town talks about the HIV/AIDS situation in South Africa. The film also includes music performances and location shots.

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.

Sten Vermund from University of Alabama reflects on the history of the global AIDS epidemic and his involvement in the field as a young scientist in the 80's. He discusses the social and economic factors of HIV/AIDS, such as stigma, poverty and the drug industry.