Outcomes of the innovative competition and the finalist short films were presented by the Australian Herpes Management Forum (AHMF) at this week’s 2010 Australasian Sexual Health Conference in Sydney, which wraps up today (National Herpes Awareness Day). The competition has sparked international interest, as researchers from Colombia University (New York) will work alongside University of Sydney academics to examine the use of social media in combating the stigma associated with HSV (Herpes Simplex Virus) – a widespread infection commonly associated with cold sores and genital herpes. Results from the research will be used to design strategies for clinicians, public health advocates and other members of the health care community to help reduce the stigma associated with HSV.
To mark the conclusion of the Live & Love Short Film Competition, which challenged film makers to shoot 30-second cinematic flicks designed to debunk myths surrounding HSV, international researchers are now tasked with analysing the 117 short film submissions.
Jessica and Roshelle say they are thrilled that their short flick, Ah! Real Herpes, successfully and artistically challenges the misconceptions and stigma surrounding HSV.
“The Live & Love competition forced us to think outside the square in a bid to combine creativity with a powerful sexual health message in only 30 seconds,” said Jessica.
“I wanted to challenge viewers to question the preconceptions and stereotypes they place on the herpes virus and, in the process, help shape new and more informed ideas about HSV,” said Roshelle.
“Live & Love attracted some very clever, high-calibre films, so I am over-the-moon that our film was chosen as the winning entry.”
The competition also awarded five $1,000 People’s Choice prizes to the films deemed most popular by the general public. Voting took place online at www.liveandlove.com.au from August 1 to October 11.
The competition attracted a total of 117 short film submissions of exceptionally high standard. Both the Judges’ Choice and People’s Choice awards were tightly contested, and the judging panel was hard-pressed to find a stand-out entry.
Sexual health physician, Dr Darren Russell, says the Live & Love Short Film Competition has taken significant steps toward breaking the social stigma associated with HSV infections.
“The Live & Love short films are brilliant tools that facilitate open discussion about HSV infections between partners, family and friends.
“Consequently, many people living with HSV are realising that they’re not alone. In reality, if you don’t have an HSV infection, you’re bound to know someone who does,” said Dr Russell. more#
“The Live & Love short films send powerful messages to the community to convey these realities of HSV infections that have previously been ’embarrassing’ or ‘taboo’.”
The AHMF partnered with Novartis Australia to bring Australians the inaugural Live & Love Short Film Competition. For more information or to view the film showcase, head to www.liveandlove.com.au.
