About the Film
The Soloist is an emotionally soaring drama about lost dreams and the redemptive power of music. In the film, which was based on a true story, Journalist Steve Lopez (Oscar® nominee Robert Downey Jr.) discovers Nathaniel Anthony Ayers (Oscar® winner Jamie Foxx), a former classical music prodigy, playing his violin on the streets of L.A. As Lopez endeavors to help the homeless man find his way back, a unique friendship is formed, one that transforms both their lives.
The film explores such issues as homelessness and mental illness, as well as the healing nature of music. The social action campaign for the film will focus on these issues with educational and legislative initiatives to help guide audience members who are interested in getting involved.
Student Film Festival
As part of a special screening program Participant Media created with Willow Creek Church for THE SOLOIST, the youth ministry planned a film festival around the screening they hosted on April 19.
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In the News
Violence Against the Homeless: Is It a Hate Crime?
Time | Oct 22, 2008
Finding L.A.'s hidden homeless
Los Angeles Times | Aug 23, 2008
'The Soloist' by Steve Lopez
Los Angeles Times | Apr 21, 2008
Take Action Now
Nathaniel Anthony Ayers is a man not defined by his homelessness and mental illness, but by his talent and his capacity to inspire others through the power of his extraordinary gifts. Every individual can take action to solve homelessness and de-stigmatize mental illness.
Things Aren’t Always What They Seem
Learn the truth about homelessness and mental illness through The Soloist art gallery, featuring music by Nuttin’ But Stringz. Then share it with your friends.
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Volunteer to make a difference in your community
You can take action to help homeless and mentally ill people in your community through VolunteerMatch.org's map made especially for The Soloist.
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Pocket Change
Keep tips and facts on homelessness and mental illness with you in a wallet-sized pamphlet. Just download, print, and carry with you to start making change today!
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Lamp Community
Founded in 1985, Lamp Community is a nonprofit organization providing housing, health recovery, and job training to homeless men and women with serious mental illness.
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The Nathaniel Anthony Ayers Foundation
The Nathaniel Anthony Ayers Foundation provides support to arts related programs at mental health and arts organizations that serve the mentally ill.
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Educational Resource Guide
Coming Soon: Service learning activities, lesson plans, viewing guides, and more for students and teachers
