The Lazarus Effect

Filmmaker Lance Bangs' HBO-aired documentary introduces viewers to a woman who is having a significant impact in Zambia through her work in securing treatment for victims of HIV/AIDS. Twenty million Africans have died from the treatable condition; the key to stopping the death toll is to get lifesaving antiretroviral (ARV) medications to the afflicted. Bangs focuses on Constance Mudenda, who supervises a clinic in Lusaka and whose motivation derives from the fact that ARVs saved her life, although she lost her three children to AIDS. Bangs also interviews Mudenda's patients, including an expectant mother who gives birth to a healthy child, and a young man who lost his parents and siblings to the disease. As photographs attest, emaciated individuals can appear much improved after 40 days on ARVs, which makes them embodiments of the biblical Lazarus story (granted, Lazarus actually died before resurrection). Public health organizations help provide the medication to millions across Africa, while Mudenda and her staff distribute drugs to clientele in their area, establishing long-term relationships (since the virus will overwhelm patients if they stop taking ARVs). Mudenda's clinic also offers a support group to help patients deal with the emotional consequences of HIV/AIDS, which some find it difficult to talk about. Unfortunately, Mudenda and her associates can't reach everyone in time, but The Lazarus Effect offers more hope than despair. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy)