Watch Killing Patient Zero

Killing Patient Zero is a 2019 documentary film directed by Laurie Lynd. The film explores the origin of the myth that Canadian flight attendant Gaëtan Dugas, also known as 'Patient Zero', was responsible for introducing HIV/AIDS to North America in the 1980s. With interviews from people who knew Dugas, as well as those who treated him, the film sets out to challenge the narrative that he was solely responsible for the spread of the virus.

The film showcases archival footage, photos, and reenactments. It provides context of the AIDS epidemic in the 80s and touches on the rise of gay rights movements. The opening sequence features various American politicians from the 80s, including Ronald Reagan, speaking about the perceived danger of AIDS, which at the time was colloquially known as 'the gay plague'. The filmmakers use this as a backdrop to Dugas' story.

Dugas is portrayed as a complex figure. Some describe him as charming and charismatic, while others remember him as being difficult and confrontational. Dugas' lovers and former partner give interviews about the man they knew, while medical professionals who treated him while he was sick answer questions about his treatment and care. There is a balance between the narratives, allowing the viewer to form their own opinion.

The film covers the publication of Randy Shilts' book, 'And the Band Played On', which singled out Dugas as the source of the North American outbreak. The subsequent media frenzy led to Dugas being labelled as 'Patient Zero'. It wasn't until years later that scientific research indicated that the virus had been in North America for years before Dugas contracted it. Dr. Michael Gottlieb, who played a key role in discovering AIDS, is interviewed and speaks about the inaccuracy of identifying Dugas as the origin of the outbreak.

The documentary also explores the consequences of labeling Dugas as 'Patient Zero'. He was ostracized by some in the gay community and demonized by many in the media. Despite being one of the earliest known cases of AIDS, Dugas was often blamed for spreading the disease. The film challenges this viewpoint and argues that Dugas was just one of many people who contracted a virus that was at the time unknown to science.

Killing Patient Zero also looks at how some groups, including the LGBTQ community and sex workers, were disproportionately affected by the AIDS epidemic. Many of the interviewees in the film speak about the stigma and discrimination they faced, both as people living with HIV and as members of marginalized groups at a time when the disease was not well understood.

The film delves into the politics of the time, including the Reagan administration's response to the AIDS epidemic. Activist and playwright Larry Kramer is interviewed, and his blunt assessment of the government's lack of action is a powerful reminder of how bad things were at the time. The film also explores the role of the media in covering the epidemic, including how some outlets helped perpetuate harmful myths and misinformation about AIDS.

Ultimately, Killing Patient Zero is an empathetic and humanizing portrait of a man who was wrongfully demonized by many. By exploring his story and the science behind the early spread of HIV/AIDS in North America, the film provides a better understanding of the epidemic and the ongoing fight for LGBT rights. The documentary is a powerful reminder of the dangers of misinformation and the importance of empathy and understanding in the face of a pandemic.

Killing Patient Zero is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.