The negated image Myth and ideology in the image of HIV persons

This article examines some mythological and ideological elements related to the social and personal image of people who live with HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), with reference to implications for film production as part of prevention programs for young people. The duality image/non-image represents an essential factor in the analysis of the relationship established between technological images, self-identity and myth conformation regarding HIV people, and consequently in the production of documentary films for the prevention of HIV. Our approach, mainly qualitative, is based on a series of testimonies of HIV people interviewed in El Salvador and Spain. The recorded material covers 27 interviews in audio and video formats of approximately 60 to 90 minutes each. This material was recorded initially for the film Yo soy positivo y tú?, a documentary planned to be part of a prevention program on HIV for the young population of the above mentioned countries. Our analysis is marked by a dual fact: the decision of the interviewed subjects to make visible or not their condition as a person living with HIV and the limitations this might have for appropriate audiovisual treatment of this issue. Consequently, our investigation focuses on this sign/ non- sign dilemma of a reality which struggles to become visible and is torn between science and myth.