As part of After School Special: The 2025 School of Visual Arts Alumni Film & Animation Festival, we are pleased to present a screening of the film Pay or Die (2023). Scott Alexander Ruderman (MFA 2016 Social Documentary) co-directed this incredibly relevant documentary that explores the crushing financial reality for insulin-dependent Americans living with diabetes. Following the film, join Ruderman for a conversation about the award-winning documentary and his personal journey living as a diabetic. Preceded by the NYC premiere of the short documentary The Hemingway (2024), co-directed by the film's subject, Patrick O'Brien (BFA 1996 Film and Video).
Synopsis: Today, nearly 2 million Americans are being held for ransom. Without insulin, they'll be dead in days. Pay or Die lays bare the human cost of America's insulin affordability crisis.
This film premiered at the 2023 South by Southwest film festival in Austin, TX.
Pay or Die is rated TV-MA, and some material may be inappropriate for children under the age of 13. Children ages 3 and under may not be admitted.
Doors will open approximately 30 minutes prior to each screening. Guests can enjoy a special selection of music videos by Amanda DiMartino (BFA 2017 Film) in the lobby while waiting to enter.
Ticket Information
All After School Special 2025 screenings are free and open to the public. General Admission RSVPs via Eventbrite are appreciated, but not necessary, and do not guarantee admittance. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
If you would like to attend this event, but require assistive devices and/or accommodations, please email svatheatre@sva.edu or call 212-592-2980 at least one week prior.
Concessions Information
SVA Theatre does not offer concessions, but will offer water to guests.
Please contact svatheatre@sva.edu with questions. Guests subject to change.
