Exposed

Teenagers and best friends Dennis, Paulie, Andy, and Mary are living the good life in rural Kansas: helping out on the farm, getting their drivers' licenses, making their own movies, and generally going about the business of growing up, when they suddenly learn that Mary has tested positive for HIV, and now the others must get tested as well since they've slept with her. Intended for teen and college markets, this well-acted film hits home the idea that AIDS is still a lethal virus that “will steal not only lives, but innocence and the souls and hearts of all those who are near,” as well as touching on issues of social relationships, sexual conduct and discovery, peer pressure, and family relationships. Blessed with nice production values overall (including a terrific score), the script's somewhat awkward time-shifts and jarring use of the word “putz” (would that be in common use in rural Kansas?) can be overlooked. For its emotional-yet-realistic emphasis on prevention and its “yes, it can happen to you” message, this very affordable tape is definitely recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (K. Glaser)