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Zero Patience is a Canadian musical comedy-drama film directed by John Greyson and released in 1993. The film is a satirical take on the AIDS epidemic, blending clever humor and poignant storytelling to deliver a profound social commentary on HIV stigma and the value of compassion and understanding. The movie tells the story of the untimely death of the French explorer and botanist Sir Richard Francis Burton, who travels through time and befriends a young gay man named "Patient Zero." Patient Zero, played by John Robinson, is a singing and dancing ghost who haunts the city of Toronto, where he is often ignored and shunned by society due to his HIV-positive status.

Despite the humorous tone of the movie, Zero Patience is meant to be a serious commentary on the widespread discrimination and intolerance surrounding the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s and 1990s. The film showcases a range of perspectives on the crisis, from the ignorance and prejudice of some segments of society to the scientific and social advances of others.

Through its emphasis on queer theory, Zero Patience critiques the medical establishment for perpetuating stereotypes and perpetrating systemic discrimination against queer and HIV-positive individuals. The film portrays the medical community as uncaring, dehumanizing, and complicit in the oppression of queer individuals through their dismissive attitudes towards HIV-positive individuals.

In contrast, the movie celebrates the resilience and creativity of the queer community and their ability to resist homophobic and heteronormative attitudes. Characters like Burton and Zero represent a counterculture that is more caring and generous than the mainstream in their fight against the AIDS epidemic.

One of the standout features of Zero Patience is the inventive musical numbers that add depth to the storytelling and satire. The songs, written by Greyson and his co-writer Mark Fewer, are catchy, witty, and well-performed, with Dianne Heatherington in particular putting in an impressive turn as a cabaret performer who sings one of the most memorable musical numbers in the film.

The film also incorporates documentary-style interviews, archive footage, and playful animation, further cementing its place as a standout experiment in storytelling and filmmaking. With its bold and imaginative approach to a complex subject, Zero Patience is a film that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

In conclusion, Zero Patience is a rare gem that tackles a sensitive topic with humor and class. The audacity and creativity with which the film is made make it feel like a perfect time capsule of the queer filmmaking of the time. Though it might not have been well-received by mainstream audiences, it's impossible to deny its lasting relevance and its place in queer cinema history.

Zero Patience is a 1993 fantasy movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.