The Advocates

The Advocates, a feature-length documentary from writer-director Remi Kessler that was released in 2018, is a stirring, incisive, and powerful look into the pressing crisis of homelessness in Los Angeles and those who strive to address it. The film allows its audience to gain insights into the trials and triumphs of people who experience homelessness, as well as the volunteers, public servants, and activists who strive to make a difference. The Advocates stars Celina Alvarez, Gary Blasi, Jerry Jones, and a host of other influential, real-life players in the fight against homelessness.

The film artistic presents a clear and informative exploration through the lives of three advocates who work to support the homeless population: Celina Alvarez, Gary Blasi, and Jerry Jones. Alvarez is a tireless case manager at Housing Works, a non-profit organization that offers a broad array of services to the homeless and HIV/AIDS-affected community in Los Angeles. Alvarez, once homeless herself, is a dynamic testament of strength and resilience, using her experiences and empathetic spirit to help those experiencing homelessness.

Gary Blasi, a Professor Emeritus of Law at UCLA and long-time researcher on homelessness and poverty issues, also prominently features in The Advocates. Gary seems to embody the proverbial voice crying in the wilderness, his staunch advocacy combined with his well-informed intellectual approach offers credibility and gravitas to the otherwise heartbreaking reality.

Completing the trio is Jerry Jones, who has served as the Director of Public Policy at Inner City Law Center and National Coalition for the Homeless. Jones has been an instrumental figure in advocating for policy change aimed at ameliorating the dire situation. Beyond being just advocates, these individuals are elevated to the status of heroes, dedicating a significant portion of their lives to bring about a significant change on the streets of L.A.

The Advocates masterfully showcases the reality of homelessness, which goes beyond merely lacking a roof over one's head. The film reveals the complexities, such as mental health issues and systemic barriers, contributing to homelessness as well as the lack of effective solutions, namely affordable housing and accessible healthcare. It presents homelessness not just as an individual's predicament, but rather a societal one that requires everyone's attention and collective effort.

The documentary manages to capture a compelling narrative that balances despair and hope, drama and facts, and personal stories and social overviews. With visuals that oscillate between starkly poignant street scenes and hopeful moments of progress, the film forces viewers to confront harsh truths while simultaneously displaying the transformative power of compassion and commitment.

The Advocates provides valuable insights into the intricacies of social work, policy-making, law enforcement, and even politics, all intertwined in the broader context of homelessness. It reveals how these forces often coexist in tension, putting forth various perspectives on addressing the issues. Moreover, the documentary admirably refrains from sugar-coating or overly-streamlining the problem. Instead, it shows how truly intractable it is, often continuously evolving, and demanding an active, dynamic solution.

By introducing audiences to the diverse pool of passionate professionals serving the homeless community, The Advocates aims to break down stereotypes and evoke empathy towards individuals experiencing homelessness. The documentary successfully encourages viewers to question the adequacy of the current strategies in addressing homelessness and further advocates for necessary structural changes.

Despite its somber subject matter, The Advocates is crafted with a sense of hope, which is instilled by the relentless spirit of its main characters. It leaves audiences with a sense of possibility and a call to action, underlining the importance of empathy, understanding, and proactive involvement in turning the tide.

The Advocates is a well-crafted, gripping, wonderfully humane, and eye-opening film that leaves a lasting impact. It serves as a crucial wake-up call, a testament to the power of grassroots activism, and a tribute to those unsung heroes working beneath the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to make a real difference. Overall, The Advocates is essential viewing – a call to arms to eliminate homelessness and create a more compassionate world.