On the Nickel
On the Nickel

On the Nickel

1980Movie96 minEnglish

Sam, a recovering alcoholic, feels dissatisfied with his life of sobriety and goes back in search of the good times he enjoyed with his wino friends on "the Nickel" of Los Angeles' skid row.

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Insights

IMDb7.3/10
Director: Cathy ZheutlinGenres: Documentary

Plot Summary

This documentary offers an intimate and poignant look into the lives of the marginalized and homeless individuals inhabiting the streets of Los Angeles, particularly around the area known as "The Nickel." Through candid interviews and observational footage, the film captures their struggles, resilience, and everyday existence. It delves into their personal stories, offering a raw and unfiltered perspective on poverty, addiction, and survival on the fringes of society.

Critical Reception

On the Nickel was critically acclaimed for its empathetic and humanistic portrayal of a often-overlooked segment of society. Reviewers praised its authentic depiction of life on the streets, highlighting the film's ability to give a voice to the voiceless. The documentary was recognized for its sensitive approach and its success in fostering understanding and compassion towards its subjects.

What Reviewers Say

  • A deeply compassionate and humanizing look at the lives of the homeless.
  • Praised for its authentic and unfiltered portrayal of street life.
  • Offers a powerful and often heartbreaking perspective on poverty and survival.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific documentary is not readily available.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival in 1980.

Fun Fact

The film was made with a small, independent crew, and many of the participants in the documentary were directly involved in its production and were compensated for their contributions.

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