Actor Dustin Hoffman narrates this story of five people who died of AIDS - their names are on panels of the quilt that now covers 14 acres. Winner of the 1989 Academy Award for Best Documentary.

The AIDS Memorial Quilt is composed of many patches, each of which is dedicated to a victim of the disease. The quilt is also the centerpiece of this documentary, and a link between the six people profiled in this film, who have all lost a child, a lover or a friend to its ravaging effects. The survivors -- some of whom are also diagnosed with the virus -- tell how the disease changed their lives, and describe the pain, anger, and inner strength that come with watching a loved one slowly die.

Originally broadcast on HBO October 15, 1989.

Produced by Telling Pictures and The Couterie Co.

The subjects of the film are: Sara Lewinstein, Suzi & David Mandell, Sallie Perryman and Tracy Torrey.

Additional credits: Saul Zaentz Co., Film Center (sound).

The late Vito Russo, who is profiled in this film, wrote "The Celluloid Closet," which writer/directors Jeffrey Friedman and Robert Epstein turned into a movie.

DVD Features:

Region 1
Keep Case
Additional Release Material:
Short Film - 1. "Then and Now"
Text/Image Galleries:
Filmmakers' Photo Gallery
Interactive Features:
Scene Selections

Rob Epstein: 
Jeffrey Friedman: Director

"...[The film] confronts us with the reality of AIDS with such simplicity and directness that it is hard to imagine how the enormous tragedy of this disease could be expressed with greater impact..."
"...[An] Oscar-winning documentary. A 79-minute powerhouse, THREADS profiles five individuals commemorated on the quilt..."