Timothy Guion Smith advocates for modern HIV representation

Filmmaker and actor Timothy Guion Smith is addressing the modern challenges of living with HIV through his art. Based in Los Angeles, Smith expresses frustration that today’s films and shows often ignore current experiences of people living with the virus. He believes many creators prefer to focus on stories from the past rather than portray the realities of HIV in the present. To combat this issue, Smith has created a short film titled Next of Kin. The film tells a poignant story within just 15 minutes and has been showcased at several film festivals. It begins with a light-hearted scene among three young gay men but takes a serious turn when one character, Tommy, reveals he is HIV positive. The film explores the stigma surrounding HIV and the emotional impact of such disclosures, especially in intimate relationships. In flashbacks, viewers learn that Tommy contracted HIV from his mother at birth. The film concludes with a conversation between them, highlighting ongoing stigma and the importance of love and support. Smith's film is notable for its authentic portrayal of a Filipino American family without falling into racial stereotypes. Beyond filmmaking, Smith openly shares his own experiences with HIV. In 2017, he posted a video revealing his status after facing frustrations with societal attitudes. He used this moment to advocate for HIV organizations and raised significant funds, tapping into both friends and broader social networks for support. Smith continues to fight against misinformation surrounding HIV, especially within the queer community. He aims to challenge misconceptions through his work and plans to expand Next of Kin into a full feature film. His new project will explore broader themes, including mental health and familial relationships, while still incorporating the realities of living with HIV. Smith hopes to complete the feature by 2026, but he acknowledges the challenges of securing funding and navigating the current state of the film industry. Despite setbacks, he is determined to tell stories that reflect the complexities of living with HIV today.