BPM (alternative title – 120 Beats Per Minute) (2017) MIFF Review

It’s Paris in the late eighties/early nineties. HIV and AIDS is prevalent and there are several activist groups fighting for the release of more effective drugs and treatment. Act Up Paris are a group who lead protests involving fake blood and chants trying to raise awareness and force action. This film follows these activists as they fight, protest, dance and fall in love.

It’s a tough film, but of course it is going to be with that content. It’s funny at times, but generally is very sensitive and a fabulous story. I would definitely recommend it, but would suggest planning your evening so you don’t pair this with another difficult film, because it had me going home quite emotional.