Homelessness documentary with Sacramento ties now streaming. Here’s how to watch
“Americans with No Address,” the locally produced documentary that explores the nation’s homelessness crisis and laid the groundwork for the Sacramento-shot feature film “No Address,” starring William Baldwin and Ashanti, is now streaming on Amazon Prime.
The documentary, touted as a “poignant examination of the homeless crisis in America,” depicts the toll the fentanyl epidemic has waged on the homeless population; profiles the people living on the nation’s streets and spotlights the nonprofit organizations and others working to reduce homelessness in their communities.
“The documentary goes beyond statistics, presenting the humanity behind the headlines, helping to dismantle stigma,” reads the documentary’s website. “By showcasing the stories of people affected by homelessness, the film highlights systemic gaps in healthcare, housing, and rehabilitation services, urging viewers to advocate for better solutions.”
Narrated by Baldwin and produced by Rocklin-based Robert Craig Films, the documentary captures Craig and his team’s marathon three-week, 20-city bus tour that preceded the filming of the dramatic film.
“We learned that fentanyl, PTSD, mental health issues and alcohol addictions play a big role in this tragic human epidemic,” the filmmakers said in promotional materials. “Amidst this chaos, our team found hope and solutions in faith-driven and secular nonprofits.”
The statistics made for troubling new headlines in recent days. More people were homeless in the U.S. in 2024 than at any time in recorded history, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
The numbers were fueled by the ongoing affordable housing crisis, more migrants coming to the U.S. and the expiration of pandemic-era housing benefits, according to HUD.
More than 187,000 people are homeless in California, the largest population of any state, according to the department’s point-in-time count released last week, though the state’s increase of 3.1% from 2023 was smaller relative to other states.
In Sacramento, an estimated 6,600 homeless people live in Sacramento County — most of whom are sleeping outdoors or in vehicles — according to the latest point-in-time compiled by Sacramento Steps Forward.
The cinematic drama, which also starred Beverly D’Angelo and Xander Berkeley, was filmed in Sacramento’s Land Park and Woodlake neighborhoods in 2023. Inspired by true events, the film tells the story of people thrown together by homelessness who build an unconventional family in their struggle to survive on the streets.
“No Address” is set for release in theaters in February.
The filmmakers have submitted the documentary “Americans with No Address” for Oscar consideration in a host of categories including best documentary feature film, cinematography and direction for the film’s director, Julia Verdin.
The 97th Academy Awards will be March 2 in Hollywood. Nominations will be announced Jan. 17.
This story was originally published December 30, 2024 at 1:50 PM.
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