“Silverlake Life: The View from Here”

“Silverlake Life: The View from Here”

Part 1

Life is the most precious thing that any human being can be proud of. Moreover, life with good health is what all humans wish for. Characters in the documentary, “Silverlake Life” takes a bold step in sharing their emotional story on the struggles they undergo in the abject ugliness of HIV/AIDS disease. The film is heartbreaking in its entirety and honesty. Words alone cannot describe the emotions that engulf an individual viewing this film; sadness, anger, joy, hope and despair fill the air while watching it. The documentary is both an eye and a heart opener given that love is a glueing ingredient that should never lack in a relationship; it keeps partners soaring the heights even in poignant moments. Lucius Seneca quoted that “sometimes, even living is an act of bravery.” The film is enriched with truthful life lessons of courageousness.

Part 2

From 1:10:50 to 1:18:33 Joslin is in hospice almost giving up his soul and waiting to be promoted to glory. Surprisingly, Massi takes charge of the filming. He captures a stream of family and friends who come to have their last moments with Joslin. Moments later, Joslin breathes his last. However, Massi, though wailing, picks up the camera and films Joslin’s lifeless body on the bed. He keeps capturing the moment even as the coroner hands him a death certificate as well as the attendants squeeze Joslin boney body into a bag and carry it away. This is a surprising moment which seems crazy. Massi is not a filmmaker, so, what drives him to film the most painful moment in his life? It is a pure act of not only affection but true love.

Part 3

Even though AIDS has been examined and portrayed in various forms, its intensity has not been regarded, such as this piece of HIV positive life. “Silverlake Life” teaches us that there is so little in the society on matters AIDS. In most cases, people talk in the context of fear that accompanies the epidemic; keeping it at arm’s length.  The film enlightens people on what is like living with AIDS. Massi and Joslin break this down that when they show the viewer what is like visiting the doctor, sustaining their relationship, going to the store and the most challenging thing; dealing with their parents. The most important lesson this film teaches people is that they still have to continue fighting beyond AIDS or any other disease. Despite being gay and HIV-positive, the couple have been married for over 20 years and have never stopped fighting all their lives against the forces of an invisible society on gay relationships.

Part 4

The film has changed my perception of death and dying in that; life should continue even if our closest people are taken away by death. In the film, moments after Joslin’s body is taken away Massi cracks a joke about grieving. He reveals that “this is the second day after Tom died”; a scene that seemed like more time had elapsed. Massi is strong and ready to face the camera again. He proves that life must go on! I also perceive that dying, especially from an ailment, gives rest. Sorrow, anger and sadness may be felt the moment Joslin is dying, but later we think that his suffering has ended and he has been peacefully released from the anguish of AIDS pandemic.

Part 5

Massi attempts to reduce AIDS threats by consistently taking his medication contrary to what Joslin does. Massi complains during a couple’s counselling session that Joslin skips his meds and focuses too much on filming. Additionally, Massi is filmed dancing and also in a pool; exercising activities that help him reduce the threat. However, on the other hand, Joslin is aware of his sudden death and maximizes on the time he has; filming to ensure that he captures every last moment he can. Therefore, this film creates a perception that life is about the choices we make and how we choose to stay with them. Massi and Joslin chose a gay marriage, contracted AIDS but fought to the end.