No te rindas. Todos estamos en la luchas (Don’t Give Up: We Are All in the Fight Together)

By staff -- Críticas, 5/1/2007

Well directed and fast paced, this movie takes viewers directly to the heart of HIV/AIDS in the Latino community from a Christian perspective, using a fictitious couple to dramatize the issue. Fernando and Aleida, husband and wife, immigrate to the United States and have a son. They eventually become Christians, join a Protestant church, and become very active and helpful within their community. A few years later, Fernando comes down with pneumonia and discovers, while in the hospital, that he has AIDS. Aleida and their son are both tested; Aleida, who is expecting their second child, tests positive. The family then faces criticism and prejudice from their church. In a cameo, evangelical pastor and author Marcos Witt explains how Jesus would treat those with AIDS and helps Fernando and Aleida’s church reach out to those with AIDS and their families. Despite the predictable plot (Fernando eventually dies) and occasionally stiff acting, this film serves as a call to action for religious institutions and its members not to ignore the growing number of Hispanics infected with HIV/AIDS. The film also features music by Witt and other popular singers, including Mexican Yuri and Venezuelan José Luis Rodríguez (“El Puma”). The DVD also includes a segment by the singers encouraging Hispanics to get involved in promoting HIV/AIDS awareness. Recommended for libraries and bookstores with health collections or serving Christian communities.—Bianca Elliott, Lansing High School, KS