Starting Over is a dramatic film about HIV/AIDS in the sub-Saharn African region, and a proper response to this pandemic. The film addresses issues of HIV transmission, stigmatization and its impact on the afflicted and affected in a poignant, yet educational manner. Produced in Nigeria with the best talent of the booming Nigeria video industry, it embraces international production standards, to create a movie that presents Africa in a bright and non-stereotypical manner.

Starting Over is an excellent media tool that has proven to be successful in promoting behavior change. It is a film that tells the story of the impact of HIV/AIDS on an individual, those that love him and the society at large. Starring A-list actors from Nigeria, Starting Over tells the story of the despair and loss of hope that HIV/AIDS has brought upon many African nations and the brighter future that is possible.

Produced in 2003-2004, Starting Over was intended to be used within the faith-based arena and as a title that will galvanize response from the Church. As such, the story is told within the context of the Church and what role it can play in articulating a "Christ-like" response to the AIDS pandemic. The movie was also designed to be culturally relevant and as true to form as possible, with regards to discussions on the medical implications of HIV transmission, onset and eventual outcome. This goal was met, as Starting Over has garnered significant accolades, including being selected as a finalist at the prestigious Festival of Pan-African Cinema held bi-annually in Burkina Faso, West Africa, the Cannes of Africa. Starting Over was also invited to the Pan African International Film Festival of Los Angeles.

Today, Starting Over and an accompanying curriculum is being used by numerous agencies combating the HIV/AIDS pandemic all over Africa. This includes a diversity of organizations including NGOs, corporations, government agencies and many Church denominations. The film has also been adopted by more than a dozen non-governmental organizations in Nigeria, the Ghana AIDS Commission and numerous faith and community based organizations in several African countries and they are using it in schools, churches, hospitals, open air meetings, and numerous other settings.

For more information or to request a copy of Starting Over for screening, please contact David Zeoli, Gospel Communications' Director of International Ministry, at (231) 773-3361.