The Film

THE FILM:

Lost in Woonsocket is a story of hope, kindness, and the reality of human frailty. In 2005, Random1, an A&E show created by John Chester and Andre Miller, began a humanitarian experiment, roaming the country in search of strangers who needed help. In a revealing, behind the scenes look at the process, we are introduced to two homeless alcoholics, Mark and Normand, struggling to survive in a backwoods tent. Though hopeless, destitute and out of touch with their families, the two maintain a strong friendship with each other.

John and Andre bend over backwards to get Mark into detox, treatment and hopefully — a life of sobriety. This journey does not come easily, and is immeasurably aided by the incredible cast of characters who step out of the woodwork to offer support, sincerity, and love.

When the series is cancelled and Normand’s children contact John and Andre, wondering why their father wasn’t worth saving, the filmmakers are forced to re-examine their decisions and head back to Woonsocket, Rhode Island. What arises is a shockingly candid analysis of how our decisions affect one another, how television can change lives, and how the best intentions can have unintended consequences. Up close and unflinching in its raw honesty, Lost in Woonsocket contains countless moments of pathos, horror, humor, sadness and grace. This documentary examines our most basic societal needs: the need to help one another, the struggle against personal demons, and the unsung role of compassion in modern society.