Outside In America

These character-led documentary shorts are part of Outside In America, a Guardian initiative consisting of news stories, investigations, multimedia and interactive graphics about homelessness in the United States. The project is funded by the Gates Foundation.

Episode 01: Superhero impersonators Tyler Watts and Christopher Dennis struggle with homelessness as they ply their trade along Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, earning money by posing for pictures with tourists. Character work can be tough work, but many say it’s the only thing keeping them going.

I produced, shot and edited this story with reporter Alastair Gee.

Episode 02: I traveled to Las Vegas to report, produce, shoot and edit this short about people living in the flood tunnels underneath Las Vegas, many of whom struggle with substance abuse and addiction. An estimated 300 people live in these tunnels, and Paul Vautrinot was one of them. After a drug conviction, Vautrinot went through a rehab program, and he now visits the tunnels regularly to try to help residents find a way out.

Episode 03: Long America’s vacation paradise, Hawaii is in a state of emergency as it battles a homelessness crisis. Could Pu’uhonua safe zones help alleviate the problem?

I co-produced and edited this piece with documentary maker Ciara Lacy in Hawaii.