Undefeated: Film to mark World Aids Day

It may have been lost on many people but 1st December was World Aids Day. To mark the week the ground breaking charity, ‘Body and Soul’ released a movie; ‘Undefeated’, a movie that seeks to show what it is like for many young adults living with HIV.

An invited audience including the film Director and cast packed into the Curzon Mayfair for the film's UK premiere.  Body and Soul founder Emma Colyer gave a short introduction explaining that; 

"This short film was put together by listening and listening even more to the real experiences of  young men and women and their families, who either directly or indirectly live with HIV."

The film shot in urban London features  the young actress Pearl Mahaga. She plays  Blessing, a bright, popular and in love young woman. A staff member at the college Blessing attends betrays her confidence and divulges to one of the students that she has HIV. As word rapidly gets about her life is turned upside down. Lack of knowledge and prejudice quickly translate to hatred and potential violence.   It’s not a happy ending, perhaps reflecting the reality for many confronting the social stigma of HIV. Yet within a complex, and at times traumatic story, the Director weaves in a beautiful love story between the young woman with HIV and her boyfriend who is completely aware of her status and enjoy their young love.

After the film the Director, Tudor Paynewas joined on stage by the young actress Pearl Mahaga.  Both were passionate about why they had got involved with the project, particularly around ensuring many more could better understand what HIV was about  and reduce prejudice towards it. 

The mood of the audience was best summed up by best selling rap artist SWAY who stood up to say; 

"You’re brilliant. This film, your acting, are role models for our communities. I salute you."

He was right. 100%.

Simon Woolley

Click here to see the trailer of Undefeated