This paper contends that there seem to be two basic types of films about HIV/AIDS: those produced by mass media (television, movies, news, soap operas) and those produced outside the commercial sphere (independent or "activist" videos and films). According to the paper, "Longtime Companion,""Philadelphia,""It's My Party,""And the Band Played On," and "Jeffrey" fall into the category of those produced by mass media. The paper discusses these major films that deal with HIV/AIDS, as well as a few "gay" films. It also provides many questions for discussion that can be used in the classroom, both general questions about HIV/AIDS and questions geared toward the specific film. Among the paper's conclusions are that, since mass media films are geared to the conventional audience, they tend to have certain characteristics--on the negative side, they are about dying and give a narrow portrayal of sexuality--the more positive side seems to be in the portrayal of family and community. The paper notes that, in the end, the films are a paradox, just as the entire AIDs epidemic has been. Contains 20 references. (NKA)