From Impulse Group and designer/writer John Saint-Denis comes a new educational and artistic short film called “Falling.” From the same team that brought you the widely acclaimed shorts “Knowing” and “Open,” comes another portrayal of life as a young gay man. This time we touch on the problem of crystal meth use and the fracturing of relationships. We see how in the gay community we can fall in love and sometimes fall apart. This film is thought provoking with a compelling, tender and multifaceted story line that demonstrates the importance of community and the choices we make.
“I think life for young gay men is often more complex than what we see on the surface,” says Saint-Denis. “Moments when we make choices, good and bad, are part of everyday life. We’ve set out to show those moments without any judgment on the feelings, but with a clear point of view on the dangers we face. Our community gives us the opportunity to get ourselves in deep trouble, yet can also save us from complete destruction. I think simply reminding ourselves to choose love in these moments is what can set us apart.”
The main characters are played by Christopher Pelletier and Peter Rothbard from “Open,” and newcomer to the series Courtney Grant. Cameo performance by Namir Nasir from both “Knowing” and “Open.” The music is a rendition of Cheap Trick’s “I want you to want me” performed and donated by Chase Holfelder, a young straight artist and LGBT advocate who is quickly becoming a YouTube sensation.
[embedyt]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMV2QtYbmxM[/embedyt]Impulse Group Los Angeles (2010) is the founding chapter of the international group dedicated to promoting healthier sexual lifestyles among gay men. With support from AIDS Healthcare Foundation, this group of 19 volunteers works to create campaigns, events, and online content to educate and raise awareness to a new generation of gay men who live in a modern and rapidly evolving world. “Like” Impulse Group Los Angeles on Facebook and follow @Impulsegroupla on Twitter and Instagram.Contact: joey.hernandez AT impulsegrp.org
According to recent studies, self-reported rates of methamphetamine use in Los Angeles by gay men have reached levels as high as 53%, and have not fallen below 11% in the past decade. Compared to non-users, users are more likely to report unprotected anal intercourse and/or substance use during sex, both of which have been associated with increased HIV prevalence and/or transmission risk. As a result, HIV prevalence is significantly higher among gay men who report methamphetamine use.