We Were Here

What would it feel like to have to go to a funeral for a friend or a loved one every week? Only a couple of decades ago, after the AIDS epidemic, this was the cruel reality for many gay communities. As the treatments have become more efficient and the life expectancy of people with AIDS has increased—at least in the Western world—the history of the illness threatens to sink into oblivion.To make sure we will not forget, director David Weissman brings us »We Were Here«, a gripping documentary, that traces the first years of AIDS in the gay community of San Francisco. The heart and soul of the film are its five interviewees. They share their memories of care-taking and overwhelming loss as they fight against the negligence and ignorance of the authorities.There are uplifting moments in the film as well. We are reminded of why so many still find their way to San Francisco: the legacy of the activism, unity and love that the hippie generation passed on remains strong, a legacy that gave hope to many. It also enabled the change that the activists of the 1980’s were able to accomplish—»We Were Here« is a beautiful tribute to all of them.

Premiere Status
Nordic Premiere: Cast
Eileen Glutzer: Producer
David Weissman: Cinematography
Marsha Kahm: Music
Holcombe Waller: Spoken language
English