Lost Cause

This is a very clever and insightful short film about a man calling an HIV assistance center trying to get help. He's obviously having serious life-threatening trouble and yet again and again, he's being routed to either the wrong office or someone who could care less about the patient. The man becomes increasingly frustrated, as in addition, he keeps getting disconnected or dropped into a voice mail box--even though he tells them it's an emergency. Yet, because he is so desperate for help, he keeps calling back--hoping he'll finally find someone who cares.

While not all the scenarios work well (the acting wasn't very convincing in a couple cases), the overall effect is excellent and is a must-see for anyone in the helping profession, as this gives tremendous insight into what it's like to be a patient.

By the way, while it is very appropriate given the situation, the film has LOTS of strong language when the patient begins to vent his frustration at the indifferent staff. So think twice before you play this for kids or show this to your minister!