World Premiere of the Documentary “HOMELESS” by Valerio Zanoli: A Cinematic Call to End Homelessness

On November 6, 2024, the city of Cairo, Egypt, became the epicenter for discussions about global homelessness as it hosted the world premiere of the documentary “HOMELESS,” directed by filmmaker Valerio Zanoli. This impactful screening took place at the World Urban Forum, convened by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), making it a powerful event for both cinema and social activism.

The Mission Behind “HOMELESS“

“HOMELESS” is more than a documentary; it’s a movement. Its core mission is to humanize homeless individuals, allowing audiences to gain a deeper understanding of their backgrounds, challenges, dreams, and their unwavering quest for home. Through these personal stories, the film raises awareness and funds aimed at addressing homelessness on a global scale. The documentary is part of the Let’s Make a Difference initiative, a project dedicated to producing socially impactful films that inspire change and support important causes.

The film is also being utilized by UN-Habitat for its World Urban Campaign and Housing Matters campaign, solidifying its role in promoting conversations about the critical need for adequate housing worldwide. The documentary’s purpose aligns closely with the United Nations Human Settlements Programme’s goal to provide adequate shelter for all.

A Closer Look at “HOMELESS“

Set in Las Vegas, a city known for its stark contrast between wealth and poverty, “HOMELESS” uses the glitz of casinos against the backdrop of desolate streets to depict the harsh reality of homelessness. Las Vegas represents one of the most challenging housing markets in the U.S., with a dire need for 79,000 additional affordable housing units. However, the film extends beyond Nevada’s borders, as it addresses the global nature of homelessness—highlighting that more than 1.6 billion people live in inadequate housing, and over 100 million people are entirely without shelter.

The documentary tells the stories of five homeless individuals, each sharing their unique experiences, fears, and hopes. By focusing on their personal narratives, the film offers a raw and honest portrayal of life on the streets, shedding light on the systemic issues that contribute to homelessness. According to the National Coalition for the Homeless, “HOMELESS” is “impactful, emotional, human,” offering a much-needed exploration of this growing social crisis.

Valerio Zanoli: The Visionary Filmmaker

Directed by Valerio Zanoli, “HOMELESS” is the latest addition to his catalog of socially conscious films. Zanoli, who graduated with distinction from the School of Cinematic Arts at the University of Southern California, is known for creating movies that drive social change. His work includes “NOT TO FORGET,” featuring an all-star cast including Karen Grassle, Louis Gossett Jr., and Olympia Dukakis, and “HOPEFUL NOTES,” which received global distribution through Pure Flix Entertainment. With “HOMELESS,” Zanoli combines his passion for cinema with his commitment to advocacy, using his platform to voice the struggles of those without a home.

The Film’s Endorsements and Impact

“HOMELESS” has garnered support from various housing organizations, government leaders, and global icons. Interviews in the film feature influential voices such as Donald Whitehead Jr. (National Coalition for the Homeless), Catrina Grigsby-Thedford (Nevada Homeless Alliance), and Christine Hess (Nevada Housing Coalition), alongside segments with U.S. President Joe Biden and other key leaders. The documentary’s message resonates deeply with these advocates, who emphasize that homelessness is not just a local issue but a global challenge that requires immediate attention.

Additionally, world-renowned singer Andrea Bocelli wrote a letter of support for the film’s premiere, stressing the fundamental right to housing. Bocelli offered his heartfelt words for the event: “Home is dignity, it is life, it is the warmth, the comfort, the joy of being able to count on shelter and to offer it to one’s family. […] I believe that each of us has a moral obligation to strive for the well-being of the less fortunate.”

“HOMELESS” in the Context of UN-Habitat’s Goals

As part of the World Urban Forum, the premiere of “HOMELESS” highlights the documentary’s alignment with UN-Habitat’s agenda to advocate for sustainable urbanization and housing for all. The film plays a crucial role in the World Urban Campaign, which focuses on urban challenges and opportunities, including those related to housing, infrastructure, and equitable development. The film’s prominence in this context was confirmed by Christine Auclair, Coordinator of the Word Urban Campaign by UN-Habitat: “This is a very powerful documentary in that sense. This is really a key part of the Campaign.”

Through its screenings and future distribution, “HOMELESS” will raise awareness and foster global dialogue on ending homelessness. Additionally, all the film’s profits will be used to provide housing for underprivileged families.

For more information on the World Urban Campaign, visit the UN-Habitat’s World Urban Campaign‘s website.

The Urgency of Addressing Homelessness

The release of “HOMELESS” comes at a critical juncture, with skyrocketing rent prices and historically high inflation that exacerbated social inequalities. These factors amplify the housing crisis, pushing more people into homelessness. The film invites its audience to engage in the conversation and recognize housing as a fundamental human right. As the documentary circulates through festivals and film circuits worldwide, it aims to inspire change by encouraging viewers to take action and become part of the solution.

A Call to Action

“HOMELESS” is a call to action. By giving a voice to the voiceless and shedding light on the harsh realities of life without a home, the film hopes to foster empathy and inspire concrete actions toward solving homelessness. Valerio Zanoli’s cinematic vision provides a platform for the invisible members of society, urging the global community to stand in solidarity and strive for a world where everyone has a place to call home.

The journey from awareness to action starts with conversations, and “HOMELESS” is poised to be a catalyst for global discussions. Through its compelling storytelling and human-centered approach, the film serves as a powerful reminder that, together, we can make a difference.

For more information on how you can contribute to this cause, visit the Let’s Make a Difference project’s website and stay updated with the latest screenings and news.

Let’s unite to end homelessness—because #HousingMatters.