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'Cashing Out': An Untold Story of Survival and Exploitation

The 40-minute documentary 'Cashing Out' is a compelling exploration of the complexities surrounding the lives of individuals during the AIDS crisis. Directed by the talented Matt Nadel, who has received nominations for GLAAD Awards, this documentary reveals the often-overlooked narrative of those who turned to selling their life insurance policies to secure quick financial relief. Premiering on The New Yorker platforms, 'Cashing Out' serves as both an eye-opening account of survival and a critical examination of the exploitation that accompanied it.

A Personal Connection

At just 26, Nadel is part of a new wave of queer filmmakers dedicated to rectifying historical narratives that have often been sidelined. His connection to the viatical settlement industry is both personal and profound, making the story he tells even more compelling. The documentary delves into how the viatical settlements that emerged during the AIDS crisis were not merely about financial transactions; they embodied the struggles of individuals seeking dignity at a time when society largely failed them.

A Collective Effort

With a star-studded executive producing team that includes notable figures such as Matt Bomer, Angeria Paris VanMicheals, and the Oscar-nominated filmmaker Julie Cohen, 'Cashing Out' scrutinizes the morally ambiguous territory of 'AIDS profiteering.' It reveals how some individuals navigated life and death decisions amidst systemic neglect and discrimination. Furthermore, the documentary recalls a time when survival was often intertwined with exploitation, illustrating how people's struggles persisted even in the face of adversity.

Honoring History and Encouraging Conversations

This documentary is released in collaboration with the National AIDS Memorial, launching an intergenerational storytelling project titled 'The Quilt Can Be A Comforter.' This initiative is dedicated to keeping the memory of the AIDS crisis alive and recognizing the impact of these events on future generations. The partnership with the Life Insurance Settlement Association (LISA) emphasizes the importance of understanding the evolution of this industry and ensuring that the narratives surrounding it are treated with the compassion and dignity they deserve.

According to John Cunningham, the executive director of the National AIDS Memorial, the viatical settlement industry was a response to the agonizing choices many faced during the AIDS crisis, presenting both challenges and opportunities for those affected. This echoes through Nadel's film, as he reflects on how discussions about equity and dignity remain extremely relevant in today's society.

A Call to Action

'Cashing Out' is not merely a historical recount; it serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of progress in health equity. The ongoing inequities that plagued the 1980s and 1990s continue to obstruct access to care today. The documentary ultimately emerges as a call to action, urging audiences to safeguard health care provisions and ensure no community is neglected.

About the Filmmaker

Nadel has established himself as an influential voice among the Gen Z queer filmmakers, focusing on narratives of justice and survival. A proud Yale graduate, his work spans various platforms, including The New York Times and The New Yorker. His previous projects have garnered media attention and have been recognized in multiple film festivals, including Cannes.

As 'Cashing Out' approaches its premiere date, it not only honors the past but seeks to educate and empower future generations about the ongoing struggles associated with the AIDS epidemic and broader discussions of health equity. Viewers can stream the documentary for free starting on September 10, 2025, at www.cashingoutmovie.com. This film not only documents history but ignites a conversation on care, equity, and the enduring quest for dignity in times of crisis.