3 Needles

A group of young men in South Africa embarks on a crucial journey signifying their transition from boyhood to manhood. This primal ritual strips them of their innocence and vulnerability as they confront the harsh realities of adulthood.

In rural China, Jin Ping faces life-altering consequences when she is apprehended by military personnel for transporting crates of black market blood. The authorities destroy the valuable resources, placing her in a perilous position.

In an effort to rebuild her life after losing her blood supply, Jin Ping persuades local villagers to donate blood for $5 each. Unfortunately, her unsanitary equipment leads to tragic outcomes, causing many to become infected with HIV.

The military, led by Xuan, arrives under the pretense of offering assistance to combat the spread of HIV. However, their true intentions are revealed as they aid Tong Sam in cultivating rice for his remaining neighbors instead of helping the sick.

As government officials visit the village to test for AIDS, one villager objects strongly to the exorbitant $10 charge for the test. This sentiment echoes the memories of Jin Ping's previous exploitation, showcasing deep distrust in the authorities.

In Canada, Denys, a porn star, struggles with the terrifying possibility of being HIV-positive. In denial, he deceitfully switches his blood samples with his ailing father's during a medical test.

Following his father's death, Denys is consumed by guilt and shame over his actions. This internal turmoil is compounded when his mother, Olive, discovers the truth about his profession.

Olive, horrified by her son's life choices, initially tries to persuade him to leave the adult industry. However, after learning about Denys' HIV status, she takes drastic steps and deliberately infects herself, believing it will secure their financial future.

At a family dinner, Maria, a former co-worker of Denys, confronts them with the consequences of Denys' actions. Her heartbreaking statement reveals the tragic reality that several other porn actors are also HIV-positive due to Denys’ recklessness.

In South Africa, three nuns—Clara, Mary, and Hilde—arrive at a vast plantation with a mission of service. Clara quickly becomes a source of strength for the family of a young rape victim grieving the loss of their grandmother.

Clara's compassion leads her to confront Hallyday, the plantation's owner, who places her in morally compromising situations. This ongoing conflict highlights the exploitation faced by vulnerable communities.

In a moment of desperation, Clara strikes a Faustian bargain with Hallyday, sacrificing her dignity for the sake of the family's wellbeing. This decision brings shocking revelations about irresponsibly reused medical supplies within the community.

The nuns' experiences culminate in a traumatic invasion of their quarters by marauding men. This harrowing event leaves them profoundly scarred, further emphasizing their struggles in a harsh environment.

After their departure from the plantation, Clara leaves behind her discarded habit, symbolizing her newfound independence and the profound changes she has undergone. This marks a significant turning point in her life.

In the film's conclusion, Hilde serves as the narrator, reflecting on the collective prayers and stories of those affected by the events. She contemplates the failure of humanity to unite against the AIDS epidemic, leaving the audience with a deep sense of existential reflection.