Arthur J. Bressan, Jr. was a trailblazing filmmaker who made significant contributions to the independent gay cinema movement of the 1970s and 1980s.
As a writer-director, Bressan's bold and artistic approach earned him both critical acclaim and controversy throughout his decade-long filmmaking career.
One of his most notable works is the 1985 drama Buddies, which is considered the first feature film to address AIDS.
In addition to Buddies, Bressan's notable films include Abuse, a powerful and emotionally impactful drama that earned praise from Rex Reed; Gay U.S.A., a documentary that showcased LGBT Pride celebrations across the country during Anita Bryant's anti-gay crusade; and Passing Strangers, a lyrical coming out drama that won the Best Director Prize at the 1974 San Francisco Erotic Film Festival.
Bressan's filmography also includes Forbidden Letters, Family Affair, Thank You, Mr. President, Pleasure Beach, Juice, and Daddy Dearest.
Sadly, Bressan passed away in 1987 due to complications from AIDS.
