The First Fallen takes audiences back to a time when there was still very little known about AIDS. Set in 1983 Brazil, Suzano (Johnny Massaro) is a young biology student who has come to the realization that he is sick. Together with Rose (Renata Carvalho) and documentarian Humberto (Vitor Camilo) who are also very ill, they decide to make a video documenting their lives.
The premise opens itself up to melodrama. Instead director Rodrigo de Oliveira tells a story that is filled with emotion but never feels manipulative in its approach. This genuine storytelling allows audiences to become invested even in the most difficult moments. The First Fallen is not asking anyone to feel sorry for its leads; it portrays them as people who are unsure of what is happening to them and have bonded together as they fight to survive.
This makes the more powerful moments really stand out. There are some well delivered monologues that convey the confusion and frustration of the three friends. In particular, Rose serves almost as a symbol for the group and for others in the LGBTQ community. As a transgender woman, she has dealt with a lot of ignorance and hate in her life, and must now deal with a new strange disease. Her default reaction is anger and distrust.
While The First Fallen sometimes stumbles in developing the trio as well-rounded characters, it does an excellent job of making them human. It almost sounds like a contradiction, but there is only tertiary information provided about each. Viewers are given a rough idea about the type of people they are and little else. That being said, they resonate emotionally, so everything that happens feels impactful. Still, it is not hard to think there would have been a deeper connection if there was more to the characters.
There is no denying it is a powerful watch, however. Taking place during a time when AIDS still did not have a name, The First Fallen may only seem to be about three people, but it is a reminder about all of those who have suffered and have been lost to the disease.
The First Fallen comes to DVD/VOD February 21
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